Need alternative drug

[thedonnat57]

As of Jan. 1st my insurance will no longer pay for my Gabapentin 400mg, which I take 3 times a day. I have IBS-CC so I need to be very careful on what I take to control my pain. Does anyone know of an alternative drug similar to Gabapentin?

[Bananas5]

Hello thedonnat57 Am I right in thinking you are in USA? Out of curiosity why won't they pay out after 1 Jan?

x

[grace111]

iv heard pregablin is very similar to gabapentin as my daughter who was on prozac could not have that and was given pregablin the doctor told her it was a very similar drug and would have less of an interaction with prozac.

[X01WOOG in reply to grace111]

I didn't know gabapentin and Prozac had an interaction. My sister is on both.

[grace111 in reply to X01WOOG]

Interactions between your selected drugs

Moderate

fluoxetine ↔ gabapentin

Applies to:Prozac (fluoxetine) and Neurontin (gabapentin)

Using FLUoxetine together with gabapentin may increase side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, and difficulty concentrating. Some people, especially the elderly, may also experience impairment in thinking, judgment, and motor coordination. You should avoid or limit the use of alcohol while being treated with these medications. Also avoid activities requiring mental alertness such as driving or operating hazardous machinery until you know how the medications affect you. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor. it says its only moderate my daughter has fibro so i dont know if that anything to do with it. also suffers from another illness which causes confusion and difficulty with concentrating so maybe thats why she said that she couldnt give her gabapentin, also when my daugher goes to the doctor they keep asking her how her drinking is and she gets really annoyed as she does not drink but her blood tests always show quite hight gamma gt. who knows whats going on in the minds of some of those doctors, all the best love grace xoxox

[Jan101]

Hi pregablin is the sister drug to Gabapentin. I have had both and I find the pregablin works better for me. I hope that you can get it sorted out with your insurance. Good luck and take good care.

Jan101 x

[X01WOOG]

What country are you in? I am sorry for your concerns. I pray you will get the help you need.

[CtKathleenUSA]

I have had trouble with my insurance companies changing their formularies. If I am unable to benefit from their covered alternative, I have had success with the doctor's office contacting the insurer for exceptions. While I was waiting, the doctor gave me samples. Some people who can't afford their medication can receive reduced prices (some are free) directly from the drug manufacturer.

It's possible the alternative to gabapentin could have a greater benefit for you. I'm hoping...

I had good luck with Cymbalta. It's not a miracle. But it knocks down the screaming pain so I can think. There are many options and I wish you the best. It can be very scary.

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thedonnat57

Your Dr can call as well as you to get prior approval for the drug. I take Opana and it has to be done every month. If that doesn't work, metaxalone is almost the same drug. Maybe that will work for you!

Take care my friend!