Chronic Cough Since 2018
I’m a 60-year-old woman, 5'5" tall, weighing 120 pounds. I have not been on any medication until recently. My doctor prescribed me gabapentin, but after just one dose, I felt extremely inebriated, almost as if I had consumed a significant amount of alcohol. I'm perplexed about why gabapentin was prescribed to me in the first place. I'm feeling quite frustrated and financially pressured as I seek answers to resolve this issue.
Answers (1)
7/24/2025, 11:10:39 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel frustrated and confused about your chronic cough and the recent prescription of gabapentin, especially given the side effects you've experienced. Gabapentin is often prescribed to help relieve nerve pain or seizures, and in some cases, it may be used for conditions associated with chronic pain, like fibromyalgia. However, it's not typically indicated for a chronic cough.
Explanation:
Chronic cough can stem from various conditions, including asthma, allergies, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), chronic bronchitis, or even side effects from medications. Your existing concerns about fibromyalgia could also complicate symptoms you experience, including pain and discomfort that may affect your cough.
Regarding the reaction to gabapentin, feeling inebriated after just one dose can be a common side effect, as gabapentin can cause drowsiness and dizziness. This response varies among individuals, and it's important to bring this up with your healthcare provider.
Next Steps:
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Prioritize Symptom Tracking: Keep a diary of your cough, noting when it occurs, any triggers (like allergens or eating), and associated symptoms (e.g., shortness of breath, wheezing, or mucus production). This information can help identify patterns and guide further discussion with your doctor.
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Consider Lifestyle Adjustments:
- Stay hydrated and consider using a humidifier to alleviate dry air.
- Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke, and be cautious of allergens or pollutants that may worsen your cough.
- Try gentle throat lozenges or warm teas that may soothe an irritated throat.
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Communicate with Your Doctor: Reach out to your healthcare provider regarding:
- Your experience with gabapentin and its side effects.
- Discussing alternative treatments or further evaluation for your chronic cough, especially if you’re not getting the answers you seek.
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Explore Answers to Financial Concerns: If medication costs are a burden, ask your doctor or pharmacist about generics, patient assistance programs, or alternative therapies that might be more affordable.
By taking these steps and clearly communicating your concerns, you can work towards understanding and managing your cough while addressing any issues with medications effectively. Remember, you're not alone in this process; seeking answers is a crucial part of managing your health.
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