Gabapentin

Molecule Description

Gabapentin belongs to the group of medications called anticonvulsants or antiep

ileptic medications. It is used to treat epilepsy and nerve pain.

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses of Gabapentin

Gabapentin is the first line of treatment for neurogenic pain (e.g. the nerve pain that comes up after having herpes which can last for months)
It is also used in seizures, nerve disorder associated with diabetes (diabetic neuropathy), migraine and anxiety disorders

Contraindications of Gabapentin

When should one not use Gabapentin

If you are allergic to Gabapentin.

Side effects of Gabapentin

Common side effects of this drug are:

Viral infection
Fever, tiredness
Confusion, mood changes
Blurred vision, double vision
Vertigo
Respiratory infections, urinary tract infection
Increased appetite
High blood pressure, flushing or dilation of blood vessels
Difficulty breathing, sore throat, cough, dry nose
Vomiting, nausea, inflammation of gums, diarrhea, stomach pain, constipation
Facial swelling, bruises, rash, joint pain, muscle pain, back pain, twitching
Difficulties with erection (impotence)
Swelling in the legs and arms, difficulty while walking

Precautions and Warnings of Gabapentin

Pregnancy

Can I take Gabapentin during pregnancy?

Gabapentin capsules should not be taken during pregnancy unless advised by your physician. Use contraception if you are a woman of child-bearing potential. Medicines for epilepsy should not be discontinued abruptly as there is a risk of fits which can be harmful to the baby. Discuss with your doctor if you are pregnant.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Gabapentin while breastfeeding?

Gabapentin passes into breast milk. Since the effect on the baby is unknown, it is not recommended to breastfeed while using Gabapentin capsules.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Gabapentin?

Caution is advised as Gabapentin can cause dizziness or tiredness. Avoid driving if you experience these.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Gabapentin?

It is not recommended with alcohol as it increases the risk of side effects like drowsiness and difficulty in concentrating.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

You have kidney disease (or if you are on dialysis), epilepsy or other seizure disorder
If you have diabetes, liver disease or a heart disease
Mental symptoms and history should be specifically shared: a history of depression, mood disorder, drug abuse or suicidal thoughts or actions
Some people have suicidal thoughts while taking this medicine. Your family members or other close relatives should be alert to changes in your mood or symptoms
Consult with your doctor in case you see mood changes while on this medication
Some patients get addicted to the use of Gabapentin which then becomes drug abuse
Beware of self-medication and do not extend the treatment beyond the duration required
Stick to your prescribed dose and beware of overdose

Mode of Action of Gabapentin

How Does It Work?

It affects chemicals and nerves in the body that cause seizures (convulsions) and some types of nerve pain.

Interactions of Gabapentin

Interactions with other medicines

Gabapentin may interact with medicines like Levothyroxine, Ascorbic Acid, Alprazolam, Atorvastatin and Furosemide.

Interactions with food items

If you are on treatment with Gabapentin avoid fish oil as it increases the side effects of it.

Dosage of Gabapentin

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose are double vision, slurred speech, loss of consciousness, drowsiness and diarrhea. Inform your doctor immediately in case of overdose.

Missed a Dose

If you missed any dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, then skip the missed dose & do not take extra medicine to compensate for the missed dose.

Content Details

WRITTEN BY

Dr. Nikita Toshi

BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery)

REVIEWED BY

Dr. Ritu Budania

MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long does it usually take for Gabapentin to work?

A: Some people see improvement in their symptoms about a week after starting treatment. Others need about a month before they see significant improvements.

Q: Can children and adolescents safely take Gabapentin?

A: Gabapentin has only been approved for use in adolescents above the age of 12.

References

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Last Updated on: 05 Oct 2020 | 10:47 PM (IST)

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