Can I Reduce The Dosage Of Gabapentin While On Antidepressant After Being Diagnosed With Bipolar Disorder?

Posted on Fri, 29 Jun 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 29 Jun 2018 Answered on

Fri, 1 Jul 2022 Last reviewed on

Question : My son was diagnosed with bipolar 1 three weeks ago. HE was prescribed lithium and gabapentin as he was on antidepressants. He takes 600 mg 4 times a day to "help him thru the withdrawal". He has trouble sleeping, has feelings of aggression and anger?
I cannot get a hold of his phyciatrist. Should he reduce the dosage/frequency of gabapentin?

Answered by Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Consultation

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

No, absolutely do not decrease the gabapentin. It is helping to treat the symptoms of aggression, anger, and insomnia. Lowering the dose will make these symptoms worse.

Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Sheppe

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee