About Neurontin
This anti-seizure treatment is prescribed as an adjunct therapy
to control partial seizures. Its exact method of action is unclear.
Neurontin may also be prescribed for the following generally accepted
uses: chronic pain syndromes (like diabetic neuropathy), treatment
of spasticity (including some cases of multiple sclerosis), adjunct
treatment for bipolar disorder, essential tremor, migraine prevention.
Neurontin is only available by prescription, check with your
doctor regarding any likely drug interactions with other medications
you may use.
Neurontin Side Effects
Possible Neurontin Side Effects: drowsiness, lethargy.
Adverse Side Effects: If any of the following side effects
occur, seek medical advice or contact your doctor immediately.
Mild: Allergy (hives , rash), altered or blurred vision,
bed-wetting (usually resolves with continued treatment), change
in blood pressure (lower or higher), clumsiness, constipation, nausea,
purpura (bluish coloring of the skin caused by minor hemorrhage),
slurred speech, swelling in the ankles, twitching, uncontrolled
eye movements, vomiting, weight gain.
Serious: Amnesia, depression, irritability, lowered white
blood cells, seizures, tremor or other movement disorder.
Cautions: This medication is not for everyone. Discuss any
of the following conditions with your doctor before beginning treatment.
- Allergies: A past allergic reaction to this drug is a
contraindication for further use. Inform your doctor if you have
any food or dye allergies.
- Kidney Disease: Any kidney impairment should be considered
with your doctor when you beign treatment. You may be prescribed
lower doses depending on measured creatinine clearance.
- Low Blood Pressure: Your doctor will advise you on your
treatment options.
- Pancreatitis: You should not use this medication.
Neurontin Interactions
Neurontin (gabapentin) may not mix well with every prescription
or over the counter treatment. Ask your doctor if it's safe to continue,
or begin, using any of the following drugs during treatment.
- Alcohol - Heavy use will make gabapentin less effective at reducing
seizure.
- Antacids - May lower effectiveness of treatment. Do not take
gabapentin for at least two hours after using an antacid.
- Antiseizure medication - Cerbyx (fosphenytoin) and Dilantin
(phenytoin) may build up to toxic levels in the body when used
with gabapentin.
- Tagamet (cimetidine) - Gabapentin may build up in the body when
used with this treatment.
Neurontin Dosages
Neurontin is available in the following dosages and forms.
- Capsules - 100 mg, 300 mg, and 400 mg doses
- Tablets - 100 mg, 200 mg, 400 mg, 600 mg, and 800 mg doses
- Oral solution - 250 mg gabapentin/5 mL of liquid
The following dosages are general recommendations for the typical
adult. Follow the instructions you get from your doctor if the dosage
should differ. Actual dosage and use schedules must be determined
for each individual.
- Seizures: Starting doses are typically 100 mg, 3 times daily.
Increases of 300 mg a day, as needed and tolerated, may be instituted
in order to find the best dose for seizure control. Doses as high
as 3,600 mg daily have been used by some patients, though most
find their condition well controlled by a lower dose.
- Pain Syndromes: 100 mg daily, as needed and tolerated, up to
a maximum of 3,600 mg daily.
Neurontin Directions
If you miss a dose of Neurontin, take it as soon as you remember,
. In that case, skip the missed dose and go back to your schedule.
Taking double doses of Neurontin is not recommended, as it may lead
to an increased risk of side effects. If you are on a dosing schedule
where you take your medication 3 times a day, preferably every 8
hours. Make sure your doses aren't farther than 12 hours apart.
Neurontin can be taken without regard to meals, but if your doctor
gives you specific instructions, follow those. While the capsules
may be opened and mixed into food or a beverage, this should be
used immediately.
Stopping this medication abruptly may lead to an increased risk
of seizure. No matter what condition you are taking this medication
for, decrease your dose gradually according to the advice of your
doctor if you must stop treatment for any reason.
Store Neurontin away from direct light and heat. Store in a dry
location; avoid storing it in the bathroom, near sinks, or other
areas where it may become damp. Do not allow the oral solution to
freeze, shake before using. Do not use after the expiration date.
Keep Neurontin away from children; both when storing it, and when
discarding any unused medication.
Neurontin and Pregnancy
Adequate studies regarding the safety and effectiveness of this medication in pregnant women have not been carried out. If you are, or are planning to become pregnant, discuss your treatment with your doctor. Discontinue breast-feeding if adverse side effects appear.
Neurontin and Children
This medication not generally indicated for individuals under the
age of 12, though it is sometimes prescribed based on the age and
weight of the child. Individuals 12 and older are typically prescribed
adult doses.
Neurontin and Seniors
Seniors may respond more strongly to this drug, requiring smaller
doses. The recommended starting dose is 100 mg, taken at bedtime,
to be increased as needed and tolerated. Doses exceeding 400 mg,
3 times daily, typically represent the maximum amount prescribed
to this age group.
Watch carefully for signs of adverse effects such as confusion,
drowsiness, lethargy, strange arm motions, vision changes. Contact
a doctor immediately for instruction.
Neurontin is a trademark of Parke-Davis
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This document is provided for information only. It is not a substitute for consultation with a physician, either to diagnose symptoms or prescribe treatment. Any dosages mentioned are general guidelines only, please follow the directions of your doctor or pharmacist exactly when taking medication. We have made every effort to ensure that this information is accurate, but only your doctor can say if a medication, or drug combination, is safe for you. Information intended for US residents only.
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