Can Gabapentin and Tylenol Be Taken Together?

Individuals with chronic pain or other conditions may require multiple pain medications to manage their symptoms. For those wishing to avoid more addictive options, gabapentin and Tylenol might provide effective relief. If you’re considering using both medications together, you might wonder if this approach is safe.

Generally, for healthy individuals, taking gabapentin and Tylenol together can be safe and effective.[1] However, some people should avoid this combination.

Continue reading to learn more about gabapentin and Tylenol, their effectiveness, and who should consider avoiding this treatment approach.

What Is Gabapentin?

Gabapentin is a generic medication used to treat seizure disorders such as epilepsy, nerve pain caused by shingles, and moderate to severe restless leg syndrome (RLS).[2] As an anticonvulsant, it works by modulating chemical messengers residing in nerves and the brain. This slows overactivity in the brain and central nervous system.[2] Gabapentin is also used off-label to treat different types of pain.

This U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) medication is sold under the brand names Horizant, Neurontin, and Gralise.[2] Unlike certain other brand-name medications, gabapentin formulations differ among brands, each tailored to target specific conditions.[2]. Therefore, they should not be used interchangeably.

What Is Tylenol?

Tylenol is a brand name for its active ingredient, acetaminophen. Acetaminophen is used to treat pain and reduce fever. [3] The mechanism by which acetaminophen provides relief isn’t well understood, so further studies are needed to explore its interaction within the body.[3]

Tylenol is available over-the-counter in various forms, including liquid, tablets, caplets, chewable tablets, dissolvable powders, and capsules, all of which are offered in multiple strengths. The extra strength version contains a dosage of 500 mg.[4] Adults and teenagers weighing at least 110 pounds should not take more than a total of 4000 mg daily to prevent the risk of toxicity.[4]

Do Gabapentin and Tylenol Interact?

According to Drugs.com, no interactions were found between gabapentin and Tylenol, which means they are generally considered safe to take together. However, it is essential to consult with a pharmacist or physician before taking any action.

Some individuals have health conditions that could worsen when taking this combination of medications. Therefore, it may be advisable to space out the doses, adjust the dosages, or avoid taking them altogether.

Special Note on Tylenol PM and Gabapentin

Tylenol has several formulations, one of which is Tylenol PM. This medication is used for pain relief, to reduce fever, and to help with insomnia caused by these conditions. Unlike standard Tylenol, Tylenol PM contains an additional ingredient called diphenhydramine, which acts as a sleep aid.

Using gabapentin and diphenhydramine together can increase the risk of side effects like drowsiness, lightheadedness, dizziness, and nausea.[5] Elderly patients may experience additional concerning side effects, including impaired judgment, thinking, and motor coordination. Individuals taking Tylenol PM should avoid operating heavy machinery, including driving, as it may impair their ability to concentrate.

Before using these medications together, consult your physician, as doing so could be harmful.

What Is the Recommended Dose of a Gabapentin/Tylenol Protocol?

There is no specific dosing schedule for taking Tylenol and gabapentin together. However, if you plan to use these medications concurrently, do not exceed your prescribed dosage of gabapentin or the recommended dosage on your Tylenol label.

For your safety, talk with your doctor or pharmacist regarding your specific condition and receive guidance on how to take these medications safely together.

Is It Possible to Overdose on Gabapentin or Tylenol?

Yes, it is possible to overdose on gabapentin and Tylenol both separately and together.

Gabapentin Toxicity

Gabapentin toxicity occurs when someone takes more than the recommended dosage, either at one time or within 24 hours.[6]

According to the National Poison Control Center, signs of gabapentin toxicity include:[6]

• fast heartbeat
• low blood pressure
• impaired coordination
• nausea
• vomiting

In severe cases, symptoms can also include lethargy, coma, and death.

If you or someone you love is showing signs of a gabapentin overdose, call 911 immediately. If you have taken more gabapentin than prescribed, please contact Poison Control for guidance.

Tylenol Toxicity

It’s important to be mindful of your Tylenol dosage to avoid overdose. Toxicity can occur when taking more than 350 mg/kg or exceeding 12 g daily.[7] Even a single dose of 7.5 to 10 g can be toxic. For children, toxicity can happen when taking a dose of 150 mg/kg or higher.

Symptoms of Tylenol toxicity are divided into four stages:[7]

• Stage 1: Begins 30 minutes to 24 hours after overdose. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, lethargy, and malaise.
• Stage 2: Begins one to three days following the overdose. Symptoms may improve at this point, though some cases of acute pancreatitis and upper quadrant pain have been observed.
• Stage 3: Occurs 72 to 96 hours after the overdose. At this point, individuals will display signs of liver damage, such as yellowing of the eyes and skin (jaundice), confusion, and low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Most deaths from acetaminophen toxicity occur in this stage due to multi-organ failure.
• Stage 4: Begins four days after the overdose. Individuals may continue to experience symptoms from stage three, which generally resolve by day seven.

Are Gabapentin and Tylenol Habit-Forming?

While addiction hasn’t been clinically observed in individuals who take Tylenol, it has been observed in individuals taking gabapentin.[8]

Gabapentin has been associated with physical dependence, addiction, and withdrawal since it was first approved by the FDA in 1993.[8] Initially, the risk of addiction was considered to be low; however, over the years, there has been an increase in reported cases of gabapentin abuse, particularly in instances involving polysubstance use with illicit street drugs and opioids.

Gabapentin withdrawal occurs just three weeks after taking doses of between 400 mg and 8000 mg per day.[8]

Finding Help for Gabapentin Dependence

An addiction to prescription medications can be difficult to overcome without proper care. The journey to recovery often involves navigating physical dependence and withdrawal, which can feel like a tug of war. Fortunately, there are evidence-based methods to manage both the physical and psychological impacts of addiction.

At Southeast Detox GA, we offer programs tailored to meet your specific recovery needs. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you. We’re available 24/7 to answer any questions and provide support throughout your recovery process.