Gabapentin: Uses, Side effects, Benefits, Dosage, Safety

Overview
Uses
Dosage
Warning
Drug Interactions
Side Effects

Overview

Legal Status	Australia (AU)- S4, Prescription only Canada- Prescription only UK- Class C, Prescription only USA- Prescription only
FDA approval	Yes, In 1993
Habit-Forming	No
Therapeutic Class	Neuro CNS
Action Class	Alpha 2 delta ligands (AED)

What is Gabapentin?

Gabapentin is a prescription medicine approved by the FDA. It belongs to the class of anticonvulsant or anti-epileptic drugs that helps to reduce and prevent seizures or epilepsy. The therapeutical effectiveness of Gabapentin for neuropathic pain symptoms is also well known. This medicine may be uses as a combination treatment option with other primary treatments.

Gabapentin Brand Name

Generic Gabapentin is available in various trade or brand names (marketed names). These brands have the same active compound and working process. Popular Gabapentine brands are:

Neurontin
Gabasign
Gralise
Gabapin
Horizant

How Does Gabapentin Work?

The Gabapentin mechanism of action is similar to the restraining neurotransmitter or chemical Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA). Gabapentin reduces the abnormal or uncontrolled excitement of the brain and neurotransmitters. Thus the medicine calms the brain and nerves to control and reduce seizures or epilepsy.

Gabapentin, for neuropathic pain treatment, acts as a barrier and blocks nerve pain signals from reaching the brain receptors. Upon consuming the Gabapentin tablet, the absorption occurs within the intestines. The peak plasma concentration or the highest drug concentration occurs within 3 to 4 hours. The Gabapentin half-life of elimination (time taken to break the medicine into half) is 5 to 7 hours. Elimination of the medicine occurs in the kidney through urine.

Uses

What Is Gabapentin Uses For?

Medical or prescription Gabapentin uses are provided below.

Gabapentin for seizures or epilepsy: It helps control partial or focal seizures in a part of the brain.
Gabapentin for Neuropathy : It relieves nerve pain due to diabetes, postherpetic neuralgia (damage of nerve fibers), or central pain (impairment of the Central Nervous System).
Gabapentin for restless legs syndrome : It can help to control the irresistible urge to move the legs.
Gabapentin for Nystagmus : Nystagmus is an involuntary or uncontrolled movement of the eyes. Gabapentin is the first line of treatment for this condition.
Gabapentin for spasticity : It can be used as one of the first-line treatments for spasticity, which is a condition that causes muscle stiffness resulting in difficulties in movement, speech, etc.

Off-label uses for Gabapentin have been mentioned here:

Gabapentin for anxiety types such as social or preoperational anxiety (patients feeling anxious before surgery) can be a potential treatment.
It improves insomnia by enhancing slow-wave or deep sleep.
It can be helpful for essential tremors, a neurological condition that causes involuntary shaking or tremors.
Gabapentin for menstrual cramps.
This medicine can be effective in treating itching due to kidney failure.
Gabapentin for fibromyalgia can provide effective treatment results.

Benefits Of Gabapentin

Gabapentin is safe and has fewer side effects.
The medication is affordable and easily available.
It can help to treat alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
The use of Gabapentin for migraine prevention can be effective.
The medicine decreases hot flashes in menopausal and breast cancer patients.
Gabapentin for vertigo can be a potent treatment.
It is not a controlled substance; therefore, the chances of Gabapentin abuse and dependence are low.

Dosage

Gabapentin Dosage

Depending on the health condition and response to the treatment, your doctor might suggest the dosing information. Always take medicine as prescribed by a healthcare professional. A brief description of the standard Gabapentin dosage for pain and seizure is mentioned here:

Gabapentin dose for epilepsy or seizure

The initial dose of seizure treatment in an adult is 300mg. The maximum dose of Gabapentin is 3600mg which can be taken thrice daily.

Note: Do not exceed a gap of 12 hours between two doses of Gabapentin.

Gabapentin dose for Postherpetic Neuralgia

Gabapentin or Gabasign 300 mg is the lowest dosage for nerve pain in adults. Patients should take one dose of 300mg on the first day, then gradually increase from 2 to 3 times the following day. However, do not exceed the maximum daily dose of 1800mg.

Gabapentin dose for Restless Legs Syndrome

For moderate to severe treatment of the syndrome, Take 600 mg of Gabapentin in the evening around 5 pm with food for moderate to severe symptoms.

The medicine is available in the following dosage formulations:

Tablet
Extended Release tablet formulation
Capsule
Suspension
Solution

Note: Please consult your doctor for any dose adjustments and assistance or switching from one dosage form to another.

How To Use Gabapentin Pills?

Take the anticonvulsant medicine orally with or without food.
Swallow the tablet directly.
Do not chew or break the pill unless your doctor suggests doing so.
If the condition does not improve, consult your doctor.
The preferable time to start Gabapentin for new consumers is at bedtime.
Always take medicine at the same time to avail of maximum benefits.
Do not suddenly quit taking this medicine; it can cause Gabapentin withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety. Lower the dose and then gradually stop consuming or consult a medical expert.
If you miss a dose, do not take two pills together to compensate for the missed dose. Avoid Gabapentin overdose.

Factors That Affect The Efficacy Of Gabapentin

Antacids or medicines that neutralize stomach acid, which is prescribed for indigestion or heartburn, can affect the absorption of Gabapentin. Hence, such medication should be taken at least 2 hours before taking Gabapentin.
A lower dose of the medicine will be comparatively less efficient than a higher dose.
Consumers' age and metabolism can affect the medicine's working and absorption rate in the body.

Warning

Some Warning of Gabapentin

Do not consume Gabapentin and alcohol together.
Gabapentin use is contraindicated in patients with myoclonus or involuntary muscle twitching.
It can cause possible addiction and abuse; hence, take this medicine under strict medical instructions.
Patients undergoing this medicine treatment should be monitored regularly for any chances and risks of mental health issues such as self-harm or psychosis.
If you have to undergo dialysis, taking this medicine after the procedure is recommended.

Before taking Gabapentin

Pregnant and nursing mothers should consult a doctor before taking Gabapentin.
Individuals should ensure they are not allergic to Gabapentin ingredients before taking them.
Patients with a medical history of liver or kidney disease should take prior consultation.
Let your doctor know if you are suffering from chronic lung disease or asthma.
Gabapentin's side effects in elderly consumers can cause difficulties in walking or balance and swelling in the legs. Such patients should maintain caution and consult a medical expert.

Drug interaction

Gabapentin Interactions

A total of 266 drugs interact with Gabapentin. Therefore you should to let your doctor know of any medication or treatment you are undergoing. The list below (not a complete list) shows the drugs that can cause interactions when taken with Gabapentin.

Major Interaction	Moderate Interaction	Minor Interaction
Alfentanil	Carisoprodol	Evening primrose
Hydrocodone	Chloroquine	Aluminum hydroxide
Codeine	Diazepam	Magnesium carbonate
Fentanyl	Fentanyl	Magnesium hydroxide
Oxycodone	Lithium	Magnesium oxide

Side Effects

What are the side effects of Gabapentin?

Common Gabapentin side effects that do not require immediate medical help are mentioned below. It is also important to note that consult a doctor if the symptoms get severe, consult a doctor.

Headache
Dizziness
Drowsiness
Dry mouth
Tiredness
Nausea

If you experience any of the symptoms below, seek immediate medical help.

Rashes
Breathing difficulty
Itching
Confusion
Chest pain

All the symptoms mentioned above comprise only a few of the possible Gabapentine side effects.

Medically reviewed by:

Dr. Uche Ogbuagu (Medical Researcher)

Last reviewed: 7th March 2023

frequently asked questions

Needs Answer? Find them here

How long should I take Gabapentin tablets for nerve pain?

The medicine can be taken for a duration of 6 to 8 weeks.

Does Gabapentin cause weight gain?

Yes, Gabapentin increases appetite and retains water in the body resulting in weight gain.

Is Gabapentin a narcotic?

No, Gabapentine is a non-narcotic anticonvulsant drug.

Is Gabapentin addictive?

Improper use of the medicine can cause addiction. However, Gabapentin is less habit-forming than opioids.

Does Gabapentin make you sleepy?

One of the most common adverse effects of Gabapentin is drowsiness. Hence consuming the medicine can make one sleepy.

How long does it take for the Gabapentin pills to work?

The treatment can show its effectiveness within a week, and the maximum potency is experienced after 4 weeks.

Can you overdose on Gabapentin?

Take medicine as directed by a healthcare professional. Overdose can cause severe health risks.

Does Gabapentin cause constipation?

The consumption of the medicine can cause constipation. Clinical trials showed about 4% of Gabapentin consumers reported suffering from constipation

How long does Gabapentin stay in your system?

The medicine stays for about 48 hours in the system. However, age, metabolism, and underlying health condition can change the duration.

Is Gabapentin considered a painkiller?

Gabapentin belongs to the class of drugs called anticonvulsants. However, the medicine helps to treat neuropathic pain and other pain conditions as well.

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