Can gabapentin (Neurontin) help with fibromyalgia symptoms?
Yes, gabapentin is one of the antiseizure medications used to treat fibromyalgia. It's part of the treatment approach that can include pain medications, antidepressants, and antiseizure drugs to manage fibromyalgia symptoms.
Since fibromyalgia commonly occurs Show Full Answer
Can gabapentin (Neurontin) help with fibromyalgia symptoms?
Yes, gabapentin is one of the antiseizure medications used to treat fibromyalgia. It's part of the treatment approach that can include pain medications, antidepressants, and antiseizure drugs to manage fibromyalgia symptoms.
Since fibromyalgia commonly occurs alongside RA (affecting about 20% of people with RA compared to 5% of the general population), managing both conditions often requires separate treatment approaches. While your RA medications like DMARDs target inflammation and immune response, fibromyalgia treatments like gabapentin work differently on the nervous system.
What side effects should you watch for?
Common side effects of medications like gabapentin can include:
- Drowsiness and dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea
- Blurry vision
- Dry mouth
It's important to discuss with your doctor how gabapentin might interact with your current RA medications. They can help you start with the right dosage and monitor for any issues.
Have you talked with your rheumatologist about whether fibromyalgia might be contributing to your symptoms? Many myRAteam members find it tricky to distinguish between RA pain and fibromyalgia pain, but getting proper treatment for both can really improve quality of life.
December 9, 2025