Gabapentin

Uses

Gabapentin works on the GABA system of the body to achieve inhibitory effects on the nervous system. It is used to treat conditions such as seizures, neuropathic pain and other conditions.

How to Use

Take this medication by mouth with water, it can be taken with or without food.

If stomach upset occurs, you can take it with food or milk to decrease this effect.

Take it exactly as directed, do not take it more than directed.

If you miss a dose

, take it as soon as you can. If it is already almost time for your next dose, take only that next dose. Do not double up on any dose.

Important Information

Do not stop taking this medication suddenly or without consulting with your doctor. This could increase your risk of getting a seizure if you are taking it for seizures.

Be sure to have regular check ups with your doctor while on this medication. Keep record of your response to the medication and go over it with your doctor at each visit.

It is important to wear a bracelet or chain if you have seizures, and to carry a card that lists your medications.

This medication can make your mouth dry, drinking water, chewing sugarless gum, or sucking on candy can help to decrease this side effect.

Monitor yourself for mood changes or development of depression or suicidal thoughts while taking this medication. Report effects like these to your healthcare provider right away.

Women who become pregnant can enroll in the North American Antiepileptic Drug Pregnancy Registry by calling 1 888 233 2334. This agency collects information regarding the use of this medication during pregnancy.

Be sure that your prescribing doctor is aware if you have any of the the following conditions before taking this medication

Depression, suicidal thoughts or actions, kidney disease, history of allergic reactions, pregnancy, breastfeeding or trying to become pregnant.

Side effects that should be immediately reported to your healthcare provider

Allergic reaction(hives, itching, swelling of the face or mouth), trouble breathing, mood changes, depression, suicidal thoughts or actions.

Other Side Effects

Constipation, dizziness, headache, drowsiness, nausea, weight gain.

Dose

Neuropathic Pain From Postherpetic Neuralgia

Immediate Release Tablets:

300 mg once daily on the first day. The dose is then increased by 300 mg each day, up to 900 mg on the third day. The dose is then titrated based on response.

Partial Seizures

Immediate Release Tablets:

300 mg by mouth three times daily for a starting dose. The dose can then be increased to a maintenance dose of 300-600 mg by mouth 3 times daily.

Sources

1. Rowbotham M, Harden N, Stacey B, et al. Gabapentin for the treatment of postherpetic neuralgia. JAMA 1998;280:1837-42.

2. Rice AS, Maton S, Postherpetic Neuralgia Study Group. Gabapentin in postherpetic neuralgia: a randomised, double blind, placebo controlled study. Pain 2001;94:215-24.

3. Neurontin ® oral capsules, oral tablets, oral solution, gabapentin oral capsules, oral tablets, oral solution[package insert]. New York, NY: Parke-Davis (per FDA); 2014.

4. Neurontin(R) oral capsules, tablets, solution, gabapentin oral capsules, tablets, solution[package insert]. New York, NY: Parke-Davis; 2010.