Neurontin
Generic Name: Gabapentin
What is Neurontin?
Neurontin is used to treat nerve pain caused by shingles (rash caused by the chickenpox virus) in adults. Neurontin is also used in combination with other medications to treat certain types of seizures in adults and children.What is the most important information I should know about Neurontin?
Neurontin may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior. If you experience signs and symptoms of depression, unusual changes in mood or behavior, or thoughts of suicide, contact your doctor immediately.Do not suddenly stop taking Neurontin. Stopping Neurontin suddenly may bring on a seizure.
Neurontin sometimes leads to central nervous system side effects in children 3-12 years of age. Let your doctor know if you notice any of the following changes in your child's behavior: hostility, including aggressive behavior; thought disorder, including concentration problems and changes in school performance; or restlessness and hyperactivity.
Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how Neurontin affects you; Neurontin may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision. These effects may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain other medicines.
Who should not take Neurontin?
Do not take Neurontin if you are allergic to it or any of its ingredients.Neurontin should not be used to treat nerve pain in children.
What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Neurontin?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Neurontin. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have a history of mental or mood problems, suicidal thoughts, or you have kidney, liver, or heart disease. Tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to any medicine.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.If the Neurontin dose is reduced, discontinued, or substituted with an alternative medication, this should be done gradually over a minimum of 1 week (a longer period may be needed at the discretion of your doctor).
Seizures
Adults and adolescents ≥12 years: The usual daily dose is between 900 and 1,800 milligrams (mg). This dose is taken in divided doses three times a day. The time between doses should not exceed 12 hours.
Children 3-12 years: Your doctor will prescribe the appropriate dose for your child.
Nerve Pain Associated with Shingles
Adults: The usual starting dose is a single 300-mg dose on the first day, followed by a total 600-mg dose on the second day (taken in two divided doses), and a total 900-mg dose on the third day (taken in three divided doses). Your doctor may increase your total daily dose as needed.
How should I take Neurontin?
Take Neurontin exactly as prescribed. Neurontin is taken by mouth, with or without food. Take each dose of Neurontin with a full glass of water.Take Neurontin at the same time each day. If you are also taking antacids, wait 2 hours after taking the antacids to then take Neurontin. If you need to break a Neurontin tablet in half, take the unused half-tablet as the next dose or as soon as possible. If you do not use half-tablets within a few days of breaking the full tablet, you should throw them away. Plan ahead to have a refill on hand so you do not run out of Neurontin. Do not stop or change the dose of Neurontin without first speaking to your doctor.
What should I avoid while taking Neurontin?
Do not stop taking Neurontin unless your doctor tells you when and how to stop taking it. The dose will be decreased slowly, over a week or more. Stopping Neurontin suddenly may bring on a seizure.Neurontin may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities until you know how Neurontin affects you. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness from Neurontin, avoid these activities.
What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Neurontin?
If Neurontin is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Neurontin with the following: antacids, hydrocodone, morphine, and naproxen.What are the possible side effects of Neurontin?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: back pain, clumsiness, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, impaired muscular coordination, fever, hostility, nausea and/or vomiting, shaking or tremor, sleepiness or tiredness, stomach upset, swelling of the hands and feet, viral infection, vision problems, weakness
Can I receive Neurontin if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The effects of Neurontin during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What should I do if I miss a dose of Neurontin?
If you miss a dose of Neurontin, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Neurontin?
Store Neurontin capsules or tablets at room temperature. Store Neurontin oral solution in the refrigerator.
I'm Shereen A. Gharbia, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
