RLS medication switch

[pyramidhiker]

I have read many of the posts regarding switching from Ropinerole to Gabapentin as well as the Mayo Clinic algorithm guidelines. However has anyone attempted to add Gabapentin while decreasing Ropinerole? I am not quite sure why this is not a good route to go. I am looking for responses from those who may have tried it or had a physician that recommended it. Also, from a medical standpoint why would this overlap of meds not be effective? Thank you and this forum has been very helpful.

[Madlegs1]

While you are reducing the Rop, you are suffering Withdrawals.

Gabapentin will not help relieve withdrawals. You are just building up the dose to take over from the Rop.

That could take months.

Low strength opioids can help with the process.

Good luck.

[SueJohnson]

I have not tried it but you can add gabapentin while reducing ropinirole and it may help a little. I wouldn't advise adding more than 900 mg. See Madlegs1 response. It does not address the underlying cause of augmentation .

[Joolsg]

Most people do add gabapentin while reducing, but augmentation and withdrawal RLS can be so severe, it overrides the effect of gabapentin. Gabapentin really starts to work around 4 weeks after Ropinirole/Pramipexole has been stopped.Many people think gabapentin will work immediately and will stop Ropinirole withdrawal symptoms, and when it doesn't, they think gabapentin isn't helping.

There are a very lucky few who get away with minimal withdrawal symptoms and the gabapentin starts to work as soon as they reach the average dose.

[pyramidhiker in reply to Joolsg]

Thank you for your response. I think it always comes down to individual differences.

[Joolsg in reply to pyramidhiker]

Exactly. There will always be exceptions to the 'normal' rules.

[grizzly99]

I used to be on Rop and switched to Pramapexole several years ago. Never saw much difference between the two. I am in the process of weaning off the Pram with Gabpentin Enacarbil. Down to 3/4 dose of Pram and it seems to be working. Every day I shave off a bit more of the Pram. I get an occasional twinge but when that happens, I get up and walk around and it takes care of it. Madlegs1 is absolutely spot on about the low-grade opioids. They do help.