Gabapentin
About Gabapentin
Gabapentin belongs to a group of medications called anticonvulsants, primarily used to manage or prevent neuropathic pain and epilepsy. It is also used to treat fibromyalgia (widespread musculoskeletal pain) and restless legs syndrome (a condition causing leg discomfort and an uncontrollable urge to move the legs). Neuropathic pain is a chronic nerve condition that causes persistent pain due to nerve damage, while epilepsy is a nervous system disorder caused by abnormal nerve cell activity in the brain, leading to seizures.
Gabapentin contains gabapentin, which works by binding to specific sites on voltage-gated calcium channels. This action helps relieve nerve pain, reduces the number of pain signals sent by damaged nerves, and lowers the risk of seizures. Take Gabapentin exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more or less than directed, and do not take it more often than recommended.
You may experience some side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, fever, swelling, and ataxia (impaired balance or coordination). Most of these side effects are mild and resolve on their own over time. However, talk to your doctor if they persist or become bothersome. To treat your condition effectively, continue taking Gabapentin for as long as prescribed and do not stop taking it suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this may cause withdrawal symptoms.
Avoid taking Gabapentin if you are pregnant or breastfeeding unless advised by your doctor. It may cause drowsiness and dizziness, so drive or operate machinery only if you are fully alert. Gabapentin should not be given to children unless specifically prescribed. Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Gabapentin, as it may increase dizziness and drowsiness. Keep your doctor informed about your health conditions and all medications you are taking to help prevent potential side effects or drug interactions.
Uses of Gabapentin
Medicinal Benefits
Gabapentin belongs to a class of medications called anticonvulsants, primarily used to prevent neuropathic pain (pain from damaged nerves), fibromyalgia (widespread musculoskeletal pain), and epilepsy (seizures). It contains gabapentin, which works by binding to specific sites on voltage-gated calcium channels, reducing overexcited nerve activity. This helps relieve nerve pain and lowers the risk of seizures by interfering with pain signals travelling through damaged nerves and the brain.
Directions for Use
- Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Do not change the dose or schedule on your own.
- Gabapentin can be taken with or without food, or as advised by your doctor.
- Use the provided measuring cup, syringe, or dropper to ensure the correct dose is administered.
- Avoid household spoons, as they may give inaccurate measurements.
- Shake well before use.
Storage
Side Effects of Gabapentin
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Peripheral oedema (swelling of the feet and legs)
- Ataxia (impaired balance or coordination)
- Nystagmus (involuntary eye movements)
Drug Warnings
Do not take Gabapentin if you are allergic to any of its contents. Inform your doctor before taking Gabapentin if you have symptoms of suicidal ideation or behaviour, drug addiction, chronic pulmonary insufficiency, muscle weakness, heart problems, or liver/kidney impairment. Please do not stop taking Gabapentin without consulting your doctor, as it could cause withdrawal symptoms. Consult your doctor immediately if you experience suicidal tendencies. Do not take Gabapentin if you are pregnant or breastfeeding unless prescribed by the doctor. Gabapentin may cause dizziness, drowsiness, and blurred or double vision, so avoid driving or operating machinery unless you are fully alert. Avoid consuming alcohol and St John's Wort herbal supplement (antidepressant) while using Gabapentin, as it might cause increased dizziness and sleepiness.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interactions: Gabapentin may interact with certain medications, such as painkillers (morphine, hydrocodone, meperidine, tramadol, codeine, pentazocine), antidepressants (fluoxetine, amitriptyline, brexanolone, ketamine, esketamine), antipsychotics (quetiapine) and antimalarials (mefloquine).
Drug-Food Interactions: Avoid consumption of alcohol and St John's Wort herbal supplement (antidepressant) while taking Gabapentin, as it might cause increased dizziness and sleepiness.
Drug-Disease Interactions: Inform your doctor before taking Gabapentin if you have certain medical conditions, such as breathing problems, depression, diabetes, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, suicidal tendencies, or kidney, liver, or heart problems.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
unsafeAvoid consuming alcohol while taking Gabapentin, as it may worsen the side effects like dizziness and sleepiness.
Pregnancy
cautionGabapentin is a category B1 pregnancy drug. Please consult your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and potential risks before prescribing Gabapentin.
Breast Feeding
cautionIf you are breastfeeding, please consult your doctor before starting Gabapentin. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and potential risks before prescribing Gabapentin.
Driving
unsafeGabapentin may cause dizziness, drowsiness, and blurred or double vision. Therefore, avoid driving or operating machines while using Gabapentin.
Liver
cautionTake Gabapentin with caution, especially if you have had a history of liver disease/conditions. The dose may be adjusted by your doctor as required.
Kidney
cautionTake Gabapentin with caution, especially if you have had a history of kidney disease/conditions. The dose may be adjusted by your doctor as required.
Children
cautionGabapentin is not recommended for children below 6 years of age, as its safety and effectiveness have not been established.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Include food rich in vitamins B and D in your diet.
- Include cayenne pepper in your diet, as it can help in lowering neuropathic pain.
- Exercising regularly helps improve overall health and combat pain.
- Rest well, and get plenty of sleep.
- Try to take a warm bath, as it can be soothing.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption.
- Using essential oils for massages can help increase circulation.
- Acupuncture can be helpful by stimulating pressure points.
- Meditation and yoga can help lower stress, decrease pain sensitivity, and improve coping skills.
Special Advise
- Do not take Gabapentin for a prolonged time; it may lead to mental or physical dependence on Gabapentin.
- If you are taking any antacids containing aluminium or magnesium, try to keep at least a 2-hour gap between the intake of Gabapentin and these antacids to avoid drug-drug interaction.
- Gabapentin can cause dizziness or drowsiness; try to get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position.
- Gabapentin can cause dry mouth, so in that case, drink water or fluids, suck hard candy or ice, chew (sugarless) gum, or use a saliva substitute.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Neuropathic Pain: This is a nervous system disorder caused by nerve damage from conditions such as chronic progressive nerve disease, limb amputation, diabetes, infections, or injuries. The pain can be intermittent or continuous and is often described as prickling, stabbing, tingling, or burning. Numbness and loss of sensation are also common. Normally, the body sends pain signals in response to injury, but with neuropathic pain, the body sends pain signals without any actual injury. Symptoms include spontaneous or untriggered pain, unpleasant sensations, shooting, burning, or stabbing pain, difficulty resting or sleeping, and pain caused by typically non-painful events.
Epilepsy: This is a disorder of the nervous system caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. It results in seizures, which can be generalized (affecting the entire brain) or partial (affecting only part of the brain). Seizures may cause uncontrollable muscle twitches, spasms, confusion, or loss of consciousness. Possible causes of epilepsy include high fever, head trauma, genetic disorders, brain injuries, or stroke.
FAQs
Gabapentin belongs to a group of medications called anticonvulsants, primarily used to manage or prevent neuropathic pain (nerve-related pain) and epilepsy (seizure disorder). It is also used to treat fibromyalgia (widespread musculoskeletal pain) and restless legs syndrome (a condition that causes leg discomfort and an uncontrollable urge to move the legs).
Gabapentin contains Gabapentin, an anticonvulsant medication. In epilepsy, it works by reducing abnormal electrical activity in the brain to help prevent seizures. In cases of nerve pain, it interferes with pain signals travelling through the brain and spinal cord, helping to reduce the sensation of pain.
Do not drive or operate machinery if you experience dizziness or drowsiness while using Gabapentin. Gabapentin can also sometimes cause blurry or double vision; therefore, avoid driving in such situations. Seek medical attention if the symptoms persist longer.
The common side effects of Gabapentin are dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, fever, swelling, and ataxia (impaired balance or coordination). Most of these side effects do not require medical attention and will resolve gradually over time. However, you are advised to talk to your doctor if you experience these side effects persistently.
Yes, Gabapentin may cause weight gain, as it can increase your appetite. However, regular physical activity and a balanced diet with low-calorie foods can help you maintain a healthy weight. If you have concerns about weight gain or how to manage it, please consult your doctor for personalised advice.
Some people who take Gabapentin for a long time may develop dependence on it. If this happens, stopping the medication suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms. If you are concerned about becoming dependent on Gabapentin, talk to your doctor. They can help you manage your treatment safely.
Gabapentin is intended to manage or prevent neuropathic pain and epilepsy. It may also help improve sleep in some cases due to its calming effects. However, it is not specifically approved for treating insomnia. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional to discuss your specific needs, explore appropriate treatment options, and address any potential risks.
The onset of pain relief from Gabapentin can vary from person to person. While some people feel better after a few days, others may take many weeks to observe a significant change. If you don't see any relief after a few weeks or if your pain worsens, you should see your doctor.
The duration of Gabapentin treatment varies based on individual factors. Your condition, how your body responds, the severity of your symptoms, and your doctor's recommendations will determine how long you'll need to take it. Always follow your doctor's instructions and avoid stopping the medication abruptly.
Very few people taking Gabapentin have serious side effects. These include suicidal thoughts, an inflamed pancreas, hallucinations, and allergic reactions. If you experience any of these serious side effects while taking Gabapentin, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.
Gabapentin is not typically considered habit-forming. It does not have the same addictive potential as opioids.
No, you should not take Gabapentin off and on. Stopping and starting the medication can lead to unpredictable side effects and may not effectively manage your nerve pain.
Taking more than the recommended dose of Gabapentin can lead to serious side effects. If you or someone you know has taken too much of this medication, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Call a doctor immediately or go to the nearest hospital.
Before taking the Gabapentin, let your doctor know about all your medical conditions, sensitivities, and all medications you are using. And inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
While taking Gabapentin, it is essential to avoid alcohol and other sedating medications to prevent excessive drowsiness and impaired judgment. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how $nam affects your coordination. To prevent seizures, do not stop taking Gabapentin abruptly without consulting your doctor. If you need to take antacids, wait at least 2 hours before taking Gabapentin to avoid interference with its absorption. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of Gabapentin with your healthcare provider.
Gabapentin may cause dizziness or drowsiness. It can also sometimes cause blurry/double vision. Therefore, avoid driving or operating machines after taking Gabapentin. Seek medical attention if the symptoms persist.
Take Gabapentin with caution, especially if you have or had a history of kidney disease/conditions. The dose may be adjusted by your doctor as required. So, inform your doctor about your condition before using Gabapentin.
It is generally not recommended to take Gabapentin during pregnancy or breastfeeding without careful consideration and discussion with your doctor. They can provide the most accurate and appropriate information for your specific circumstances.
