Gabapentin and Opioids

[Ephemera]

If my husband sees a private specialist and is put on Opioids does he have to taper the Gabapentin before starting it. Any help please. Also is it Professor Walker the Uk specialist???

[SueJohnson]

No - but start at a very small dose on the opioids since the combination may cause breathing problems.

[jmg5355]

I was on both Klonopin and gabapentin at the same time, and had no problems. But each case might be different.

[Amrob in reply to jmg5355]

Klonopin is a benzodiazepine, not an opioid.

[SiannaRae]

I think this is an issue for a physician or pharmacist. I’m on Gabapentin and small dose of ropinirole and don’t feel qualified to speak to combination of opioid and Gabapentin treatments

[Amrob]

I don't believe there is a problem with that combination, bearing in mind SueJohnson's advice. I have taken various opioids with pregabalin many times. Pregabalin can potentiate other drugs including opioids (i.e. make their effects more potent) but I'm not sure if that applies to gabapentin. Why not check with your pharmacist anyhow, particularly if hubby is taking other meds.

[67Waterman]

Hi Ephemera ... I am actually seeing Professor Walker at Queen Square this afternoon for the first time, as I believe he IS the person to see for RLS (I have had to wait a year for this appointment ). I will report back later. Kind regards, Sally

[Ephemera in reply to 67Waterman]

Are you seeing him as a private patient as there is no way husband can wait a week never mind year.

[67Waterman]

No ... as NHS patient ...

[67Waterman]

Hiya. As promised ... Professor Walker is the UK Specialist for RLS. If you see him through the NHS, waiting times are extreme (I had to wait 11 months). However, he does take private patients and the waiting time is considerably less. You would just need to contact him ....

ucl.ac.uk/ion/people/profes...

Hope this helps and good luck. I found him very good this afternoon .... very helpful.