Gabapentin

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

Epleptin, Neurontin

Drug group:

Anticonvulsant drug

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

Gabapentin is an antiepileptic drug used to treat:

• Partial seizures
• Other types of epilepsy - prescribed in combination with other drugs in patients not responding to other treatment (no significant interactions with other anticonvulsant drugs)
• Neuropathic pain – post-herpetic neuralgia (shingles) or peripheral neuropathy (diabetes)

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

• Total adult daily dose: 900mg–3600mg, initially twice daily
• Dose is gradually increased over a few days to 3x daily as maintenance treatment
• No more than 12 hours should elapse between doses

How quickly will it start to work?

Full antiepileptic effect may take 48 hours  
                          

How long will the effects last?

6–8 hours              
  

When should I stop using it?

Discuss with your doctor, the drug should be withdrawn gradually over at least 7 days if used to treat epilepsy (to reduce the risk of seizures).   
        

Is it safe for prolonged use?

No problems expected. Gabapentin does not need blood level monitoring like some of the other antiepileptics.

What are the possible side effects?

The following have been reported:

• More common: drowsiness, dizziness, fatigue
• Less common: muscle tremor, vision disturbances, indigestion, weight gain
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: mood changes, hallucinations, rash

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: kidney problems, diabetes, history of psychiatric illness
• Other medicines: Antacids containing aluminium or magnesium, morphine
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Safety not established
• Children: rarely used <6 years, reduced doses based on body weight for <12 years
• Over 60: reduced doses may be necessary (especially if poor kidney function)
• Driving and hazardous work: Caution, the drug may produce drowsiness or dizziness
• Alcohol: Avoid, added sedative effects