Gabapentin withdrawal isn’t always easy. Here is everything you need to know about gabapentin withdrawal symptoms, your timeline, and how to get help. Restarting gabapentin typically stops withdrawal symptoms within 3 days. Some people may take many months to slowly withdraw from gabapentin. Some addiction centers have used magnesium or lorazepam during gabapentin withdrawal, although there is no evidence to suggest that they work for everyone. You've been taking gabapentin for a little while now, but you're ready to start weaning off. But how can you taper off carefully without having any harmful side effects? You've come to the right article. We'll walk you through the safest. Stopping gabapentin suddenly can cause physical and psychological symptoms. Learn how long gabapentin withdrawal symptoms last and how to prevent them. Does Gabapentin Have a Withdrawal Syndrome? Even those who take gabapentin as prescribed may develop some physical dependence; however, those who misuse it or abuse it recreationally may experience significant levels of dependence and withdrawal symptoms when they try to quit or slow its use. Sign up today to receive the latest news and updates from UpToDate. © 2026 UpToDate, Inc. and/or its affiliates. All Rights Reserved. For most people, gabapentin withdrawal is uncomfortable but manageable with proper medical guidance. For others, particularly those on high doses or with a history of seizure disorders, stopping without supervision can be life-threatening. When discontinuing gabapentin (Neurontin), withdrawal symptoms can occur, so a gradual dose reduction is recommended. Read here for side effects, timeline, and treatment for gabapentin withdrawal. Stopping gabapentin suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms, including seizure risk. Here’s what to expect and how to come off it safely. Stopping gabapentin abruptly can trigger a withdrawal syndrome whose symptoms range from anxiety and sweating to, in rare cases, life-threatening seizures. People can experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking gabapentin, especially if they’ve been taking it regularly at moderate to high doses. Research shows withdrawal can occur even after a few weeks of use and symptoms may resemble those seen with other central nervous system depressants. 2.