Information
Gabapentin belongs to a group of drugs called anticonvulsants.It acts on chemical transmitters in the brain and nerves.Gabapentin (Neurontin, Gralise, Horizant) is a drug used to treat partial-onset seizures, neuralgia from shingles, and restless legs syndrome.
Uses:
Gabapentin capsules, tablets, and oral solutions are used with other drugs to control certain types of seizures in people with epilepsy. Gabapentin capsules, tablets, and oral solution are used to relieve the pain of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN; a burning, stinging, or pain that can last months or years after an attack of shingles). Also used for Gabapentin extended-release tablets (Horizant) are used to treat restless leg syndrome (RLS; a condition that causes discomfort in the legs and an increased need to move them, especially at night and when sitting or lying down).
Side Effects:
- breathing problems or lung conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- kidney disease (or if you are on dialysis)
- Diabetes
- depression, mood disorders, or suicidal thoughts
- drug addiction
- seizures (unless you are taking gabapentin to treat seizures)
- liver disease
- heart disease
- (For RLS patients) at bedtime during the day or during the night shift
Dosage:
Gabapentin is available as capsules, tablets, sustained-release (long-acting) tablets, and an oral solution (liquid) taken by mouth. Gabapentin capsules, tablets, or oral solution is usually taken three times daily with a glass of water (240 milliliters) with or without food.
These drugs should be taken at regular intervals throughout the day and night. Dosing intervals should not exceed 12 hours. Take the extended-release tablet (Horizant) once a day at around 5:00 pm with a meal. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully and ask your doctor or pharmacist to clarify any areas you do not understand. Take gabapentin as directed. Do not take more or less, or more often than directed by your doctor.
Disclaimer:
Do not let anyone else use your medicine. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.