Gabapentin can cause some rare but serious side effects. While these are uncommon, people should be aware of them and seek medical attention if needed.
Consult a doctor right away if you experience any of these behavioral changes:
- suicidal thoughts or behavior
- violent behavior, aggressiveness, or anger
- anxiety that is worse or new
- depression that is worse or new
- irritability that is worse or new
- hallucinations
- mania
- panic attacks
Gabapentin can also affect specific parts of the body and cause serious but rare side effects. These include:
Kidney abnormalities
A person may experience symptoms related to kidney abnormalities, such as:
- a change in how much urine they produce
- trouble urinating
- blood in the urine
- weight gain
- swelling in the legs or feet from fluid retention
Other abnormalities
A person may experience:
- severe fatigue, tiredness, or weakness
- unexpected muscle pain
- long-lasting stomach pain
- skin color with a bluish tint on the lips, nail beds, toes, or fingers
Allergic reaction
Gabapentin can cause a severe allergic reaction or anaphylaxis. Symptoms of an allergic reaction to gabapentin include:
- a skin rash
- hives
- wheezing or difficulty breathing
- tightness in the chest or throat
- fever
- gland swelling that does not go away
- swelling of the face, lips, throat, or tongue
Call your doctor right away if you experience signs of an allergic reaction to gabapentin. Call 911 if these symptoms appear life threatening.