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Would The Side Effects Of Gabapentin Make Conditions Worse For An Elderly Person?

Posted on Thu, 6 Dec 2018

Question: My dads 79, had knee hip &back surgeries. Was on 10 mg. Norco then they switched to 5mg 7 mths ago & have been prescribing Gabepentin 300 mg. I just read peoples reviews & side effects on this & wonder if its making him worse also?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Gopal (30 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Has some side effects initially but good drug for long term use.

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

In my opinion, Gabapentin is a very useful drug especially for back disorders and neurogenic pain. It has some side effects like drowsiness which are more in the first week, else it is a relatively safe drug. I have been using it for a long time without any major side effects.

Hope your doubts are cleared now. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Gopal Goel
Orthopaedic Surgeon

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Gopal (40 hours later)

He was fine when only taking norco 10 mg. Why change when it works and lower dosage and add another script like garbpentin?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Gopal (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Norco has potential for misuse.

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

In my opinion, Norco like drugs is habit forming and has the potential for misuse. They should be given for a limited period only.

Hope I have answered your query.

Regards,
Dr. Gopal Goel
Orthopaedic Surgeon

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng