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[Tina1957]

Hi

Have just got back from GP with a prescription for Gabapentin.

Have been on Clonidine for 4 weeks (increased after 2 wks) but it had no affect at all on the horrendous hot flushes and sweating.  My GP has now given me Gabapentin to try, but has admitted this is usually prescribed only as  a last resort as it is not licensed for flushes.

Has anyone else used this and was it successful - desperately hoping for some relief.

Tinax 

[Joyce]

Clonidine didn't work for me either. I got Gabapentin for neuralgia, don't know about helping flushes. Maybe someone else knows. All I know is I was like a space cadet. I didn't realise it, but my family were worried about me. Of course that may depend on dosage. I can't remember what I was on.

[Taz2]

Interesting info here from America http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/772249

Taz 

[Joyce]

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/m/pubmed/16816054/

Found this site, which might help.

[Tina1957]

Hi

Many thanks for your speedy replies!

The links seem hopeful especially as it compares it's efficiency to estrogen.

The only thing I am a little worried about is the  side effects, I must admit that the Clonidine did make me feel very sleepy which was not great, but to be honest if I can get some relief from these constant flushes and sweating, hopefully any side affect will not be as bad (fingers crossed).

I have been told to take 1 x 300mg cap once a day and to speak to the GP in a week's time to let her know how I am and to discuss maybe increasing the dose if I need to.

Not sure when would be the best time of day to take - thinking maybe before bed?

Tinax

[Limpy]

Gabapentin is often given for pain relief, though it is recommended for reducing hot flushes.
I got it for pain relief, it has helped with that. I can't tell about hot flushes as I use evorel conti patches, which I think sort those out.

I have heard people comment about gabapentin making them sleepy. Best to take the 1 x 300mg before going to bed, then you will sleep well. The only other side effect I have had is my boobs assuming amazon proportions, never happened before........

[Joyce]

Definitely at bedtime. In fact I used to take around 8pm so that any after effects would wear off by breakfast time.

Will be interested to hear how you get on.

[Rose]

I took Gabapentin for nerve pain and my experience was awful. I had short term memory loss and slurred speech. I had to stop university because the side effects were so bad. I couldn't take them anymore. I would be interested to know how you got on with them.

[Tina1957]

Hi

A little scared by some of the side effects mentioned so chickened out of taking my first dose last night as I have a hospital outpatient appointment today and didn't want to feel groggy, etc. from any side effects.

Sitting here at the moment  dripping from head to toe and feeling like I am going to combust so will definitely start tonight (have a quiet weekend planned) ...

I Just thought that there would have been others who may have used or are using Gabapentin for flushes, so am slightly worried how little it seems to be used!

Has anyone tried it for flushes or know anybody who has??

Tinax

[Taz2]

It seems to be used quite a lot in America Tina so we are just, as usual, catching up I reckon.  It is used by UK patients who are recovering from breast cancer and are on Tamoxifem which causes dreadful hot flushes in some women. You might like to read some of their comments on the UK forum http://www.breastcancercare.org.uk/community/forums/gabapentin-hot-flushes-tamoxifen

Taz x

[Rosebush]

Tina, I was offered Gabapentin by the Meno clinic, but after checking all the side effects I was too scared to take them, that was 4yrs ago, in the end I decided to take HRT for my hot sweats, its the only thing that as helped, would you please post how you get on with them..x

[Joyce]

Definitely give them a try. Not everyone gets side effects and those who do probably get in varying degrees. Flushes & sweats can be awful, which is why I'm on HRT, but can't stay on it forever.

[Limpy]

The list of potential side effects for Gabapentin is massive, but they have to list absolutely everything. It doesn't mean you will get any of them, there is a chance it might even help! 

It's like HRT, the list of side effects is scary, however I grit my teeth and struggle womanfully on. 

I was offered Gabapentin about 15 years ago and didn't take it because I was scared of side effects. It has taken a little while to get used to them, but they really help.

[Rosebush]

Limpy so pleased Gaba is working for you, what dosage are you taking?  xx

[Tina1957]

Well took my first dose last night and did sleep really well!

Today just a little lightheaded, but nothing like I was expecting - in fact I felt worse after taking Clonidine. 

So now optimistic and hopeful - will keep you all informed!

Tinax