Experiencing Changes in Sensation After Starting Gabapentin
Hello! I'm a 19-year-old female and I began my gabapentin treatment this past Wednesday. Since then, I've noticed some peculiar changes in how I perceive touch. Honestly, it’s difficult for me to articulate, but if I were to describe it, it feels like when my hand makes contact with my arm, the sensation lingers for an extended period, far longer than it actually does. For instance, while eating cereal this morning, I felt as though I was consistently missing my mouth, often feeling milk touching my chin instead. Additionally, the day after my first dose, which I take before bedtime, I experienced a disorienting sensation, as if I were in another realm. This unusual feeling of altered touch was particularly intense on that day, though it has since diminished somewhat; however, it persists and is quite unpleasant. I'm uncertain if these sensations are a typical side effect or if they could be attributed to something else, particularly as I am on several medications. The only change has been that I took my last dose of duloxetine on Tuesday before starting gabapentin on Wednesday. My current medications include methylphenidate, propranolol, pantoprazole, magnesium, and escitalopram, in addition to the recently introduced gabapentin. I have a diagnosis of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTs) and there are suspicions regarding Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, likely the hypermobile variant. Furthermore, I deal with sleep apnea and mild eczema. Just for context, I do experience severe daily fatigue even with a CPAP machine and chronic pain, which is the primary reason for my gabapentin prescription. I genuinely appreciate any insights or advice from anyone willing to respond. Thank you!
Answers (1)
2/14/2026, 8:20:33 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned about the sensations you're experiencing after starting gabapentin. While gabapentin is commonly used to manage chronic pain and other conditions, it can lead to side effects, particularly when you first start taking it or if you're on multiple medications. The symptoms you're describing, such as lingering sensations upon touch and feelings of disorientation, may be related to the gabapentin or how it interacts with your other medications.
Explanation
Gabapentin can cause side effects like dizziness, drowsiness, and sensory changes in some people. Since you mentioned a history of conditions like postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) and potential Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, you might already have a predisposition to sensory issues. Additionally, the combination of medications you're taking, like duloxetine and escitalopram, could further contribute to these sensations, as they can interact with each other.
Next Steps
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of when these sensations occur, their intensity, and any other accompanying symptoms. This can help identify patterns and potential triggers.
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Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure you're well-hydrated and maintain a balanced diet, as both can impact your overall sensory perception and energy levels.
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Timing of Medications: Consider the timing of your medications. If you take gabapentin at night, and it’s causing sensations that affect your sleep, you might want to discuss with your doctor the possibility of adjusting the timing or dosage.
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Rest and Manage Fatigue: Since you experience daily fatigue, prioritize getting enough rest. Brief, gentle physical activities, if tolerated, can help improve overall energy and well-being.
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Open Communication: Inform your healthcare provider about these sensations and any changes in your condition. They may suggest monitoring your gabapentin doses or adjusting your medication regimen based on your feedback.
It’s important to approach these changes cautiously and keep your healthcare team informed. They are best equipped to manage medication interactions and adjust your treatment plan if necessary. I hope you find relief soon!
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