Transitioning from pregabalin to gabapentin

[jinolke]

I want to transition from pregabalin to gabapentin. What is the best way dosage wise?

[SueJohnson]

You can switch directly. Multiply the amount of pregabalin you are taking by 6 to get the correct amount. Take it 1 to 2 hours before bedtime. If you need more than 600 mg take the extra 4 hours before bedtime as it is not as well absorbed above 600 mg. If you need more than 1200 mg, take the extra 6 hours before bedtime. If you take magnesium, even in a multivitamin, don't take it within 3 hours of the gabapentin as it reduces the absorption of the gabapentin. If you take calcium don't take it within 2 hours for the same reason.

[jinolke in reply to SueJohnson]

Thank you Sue for your prompt response. The side affects of blurred vision, dizziness, and chest discomfort were unpleasant and worrisome on pregabalin. I had been on gabapentin previously and it had worked reasonably well at a 1500 mg dose with little side affects. I just got a bit fatigued by the dosage regimen and it's timing and saw the regimen for pregabalin more user friendly . The dosage of the pregabalin I am taking now is 75mg and would be hard to split up. Last night I took one 75mg dose of pregabalin and one 300mg dose of gabapentin and it seemed to work with no side effects. I thought I would do that for a week and monitor my side effects and then start increasing the Gabapentin by 300mg with eventually getting up to the 1500mg dose I was on previously.

[SueJohnson in reply to jinolke]

Yes the dosage regimen is a pain isn't it. I take 1500 mg too.

[pennygates]

Sorry jinolke,.I haven't taken gabapentin or pregablin for over two years. I wasn't able to tolerate the side effects, and was taken off them by my GP. I had very swollen legs and was hospitalised. Neither of them helped my restless legs. I realise we are all different, and many people find these drugs very helpful. I hope you this applies to you.

I see Sue has given you some suggestions. She is very knowledgeable about these matters.

Good luck and hope you get some relief soon.