If you or your loved ones are experiencing seizures or postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) pain, you may ask your doctor about Gabapentin. This anticonvulsant treats seizures by reducing the brain’s abnormal excitement and relieving PHN pain by changing the way your body senses pain.
Epileptics or people experiencing neuropathic pains can find relief with Gabapentin, marketed under the brand name Neurontin. In 1994, the U.S. Food and Drug Administrative approved Gabapentin to be used as an adjunctive drug to control partial seizures. This means that Gabapentin is effective when added or combined with other anti-seizure drugs. In 2002, the drug was also approved for relieving postherpectic neuralgia (PHN) and other nerve related pain.
How to Use Gabapentin:
You can take this drug as an oral solution, capsule or tablet three times a day. Prescription label directions include taking this medication at prescribed time, usually no more than 12 hours between doses, and with or without food. Usually, your doctor will start you on a low dose and gradually increase your dosage as needed. As with any other prescribed medications, do not stop taking Gabapentin without talking to your doctor first as you may experience withdrawal symptoms such as:
· Difficulty falling or staying asleep
· Anxiety
· Pain
· Nausea
· Sweating
Side Effects Worth Telling your Doctor:
Gabapentin may cause some mild or serious side effects, including:
· Tiredness or weakness
· Drowsiness
· Headache
· Uncontrollable shaking in some parts of your body
· Blurred or double vision
· Anxiety
· Unsteadiness
· Dizziness
· Red, swelling or itchy eyes
· Runny nose, cough, sore throat, sneezing or other flu-like symptoms
· Constipation
· Weight gain
· Diarrhea
· Dry mouth
· Vomiting
· Unusual or strange thoughts
· Unwanted eye movements
· Difficulty breathing or swallowing
Other Treatment Uses:
Gabapentin is also used to treat opiate withdrawal symptoms. It has also been prescribed to menopausal women under anti-androgenic compound treatment to lessen or control hot flashes. There is a possibility that Gabapentin may help induce a deep sleep, thus reducing arousals. The drug is also prescribed for restless legs syndrome (RLS) as well as treatment of akathisia, an anti-psychotic side effect.
Your doctor will advise you against abrupt discontinuation of Gabapentin after long term use. This is to prevent a withdrawal syndrome similar to benzodiazepine or alcohol withdrawal.