Gabapentin is not a first-line treatment for arthritis. Gabapentin may help to control the severe knee osteoarthritis pain. Gabapentin’s side effects include dizziness and sleepiness. It works best when the arthritis pain has a significant nerve-related component. Gabapentin is not a better treatment for Arthritis. Doctors may prescribe this gabapentin for use when the traditional treatment fails. It is only for minor joint pain, not for severe arthritis.