What is Gabapentin?
Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant medication prescribed for a variety of conditions. It is used to treat partial seizures‚ postherpetic neuralgia following shingles and restless legs syndrome. Gabapentin is available in both branded and generic forms. Gabapentin works by calming overactive nerves in your body. Gabapentin is not a cure for any of these conditions‚ but it can help to control the symptoms. It is important to take gabapentin exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more or less of it than prescribed‚ and do not stop taking it without talking to your doctor first.
Uses of Gabapentin
Gabapentin is a medication that is used to treat a variety of conditions‚ including⁚- Seizures⁚ Gabapentin is used to treat partial seizures‚ which are a type of seizure that affects only one part of the brain. Gabapentin is not a cure for seizures‚ but it can help to control the frequency and severity of seizures.
- Postherpetic neuralgia⁚ Postherpetic neuralgia is a type of nerve pain that can occur after a shingles infection. Gabapentin can help to relieve the pain of postherpetic neuralgia.
- Restless legs syndrome⁚ Restless legs syndrome is a condition that causes an irresistible urge to move the legs‚ often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations in the legs. Gabapentin can help to relieve the symptoms of restless legs syndrome.
- Fibromyalgia⁚ Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes widespread pain and tenderness in the muscles‚ tendons‚ and ligaments. Gabapentin can help to relieve the pain of fibromyalgia.
- Neuropathic pain⁚ Neuropathic pain is a type of nerve pain that can be caused by a variety of conditions‚ such as diabetes‚ spinal cord injury‚ and chemotherapy. Gabapentin can help to relieve the pain of neuropathic pain.
- Anxiety⁚ Gabapentin is sometimes used to treat anxiety disorders‚ such as generalized anxiety disorder and social anxiety disorder.
Dosage of Gabapentin
The dosage of gabapentin will vary depending on the condition being treated and the individual patient. For adults‚ the usual starting dose of gabapentin is 300 mg three times a day. The dose may be increased gradually as needed‚ up to a maximum of 1‚800 mg per day. For children aged 6 to 12 years‚ the usual starting dose of gabapentin is 10 to 15 mg/kg/day‚ divided into three doses. The dose may be increased gradually as needed‚ up to a maximum of 50 mg/kg/day. Gabapentin can be taken with or without food. It is important to take gabapentin exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more or less of it than prescribed‚ and do not stop taking it without talking to your doctor first. If you miss a dose of gabapentin‚ take it as soon as you remember. However‚ if it is almost time for your next dose‚ skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not take two doses of gabapentin at the same time. Gabapentin can cause side effects‚ such as dizziness‚ drowsiness‚ and nausea. These side effects are usually mild and go away after a few days or weeks. However‚ if you experience any side effects that are severe or that do not go away‚ talk to your doctor. Gabapentin can interact with other medications‚ such as antacids‚ opioids‚ and sedatives. Be sure to tell your doctor about all of the medications you are taking‚ including over-the-counter medications‚ vitamins‚ and herbal supplements. Gabapentin is not a cure for any of the conditions it is used to treat‚ but it can help to control the symptoms. It is important to take gabapentin exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more or less of it than prescribed‚ and do not stop taking it without talking to your doctor first.Side Effects of Gabapentin
Gabapentin can cause side effects‚ such as⁚- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Headache
- Blurred vision
- Double vision
- Nystagmus (involuntary eye movements)
- Tremor
- Ataxia (difficulty with coordination and balance)
- Confusion
- Memory loss
- Difficulty concentrating
- Mood swings
- Irritability
- Aggression
- Suicidal thoughts
- Suicidal behavior
- Stevens-Johnson syndrome (a rare but serious skin condition)
- Toxic epidermal necrolysis (a rare but life-threatening skin condition)
- Anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction)
- Angioedema (swelling of the face‚ lips‚ tongue‚ and throat)
- Hepatitis (inflammation of the liver)
- Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
- Renal failure (kidney failure)
Drug Interactions with Gabapentin
Gabapentin can interact with other medications‚ such as⁚- Antacids (such as aluminum hydroxide‚ calcium carbonate‚ and magnesium hydroxide)⁚ Antacids can decrease the absorption of gabapentin‚ which can lead to lower levels of gabapentin in the blood.
- Opioids (such as codeine‚ hydrocodone‚ and oxycodone)⁚ Opioids can increase the sedative effects of gabapentin‚ which can lead to drowsiness‚ dizziness‚ and difficulty concentrating.
- Sedatives (such as benzodiazepines‚ barbiturates‚ and nonbenzodiazepine hypnotics)⁚ Sedatives can increase the sedative effects of gabapentin‚ which can lead to drowsiness‚ dizziness‚ and difficulty concentrating.
- Anticonvulsants (such as carbamazepine‚ phenytoin‚ and valproic acid)⁚ Gabapentin can increase the levels of these anticonvulsants in the blood‚ which can lead to increased side effects.
- Antidepressants (such as amitriptyline‚ bupropion‚ and fluoxetine)⁚ Gabapentin can increase the levels of these antidepressants in the blood‚ which can lead to increased side effects.
- Anticoagulants (such as warfarin)⁚ Gabapentin can increase the effects of these anticoagulants‚ which can lead to an increased risk of bleeding.
Precautions for Taking Gabapentin
Gabapentin should be used with caution in certain people‚ including⁚- People with kidney problems⁚ Gabapentin is cleared from the body by the kidneys. In people with kidney problems‚ gabapentin may build up in the body and cause side effects‚ such as drowsiness‚ dizziness‚ and confusion.
- People with liver problems⁚ Gabapentin is metabolized by the liver. In people with liver problems‚ gabapentin may build up in the body and cause side effects‚ such as drowsiness‚ dizziness‚ and confusion.
- People with a history of seizures⁚ Gabapentin may increase the risk of seizures in people with a history of seizures.
- People with a history of drug or alcohol abuse⁚ Gabapentin may be habit-forming in people with a history of drug or alcohol abuse.
- Pregnant women⁚ Gabapentin should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit to the mother outweighs the potential risk to the fetus.
- Breastfeeding women⁚ Gabapentin passes into breast milk. Gabapentin should be used during breastfeeding only if the potential benefit to the mother outweighs the potential risk to the infant.
Gabapentin and Pregnancy
Gabapentin should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit to the mother outweighs the potential risk to the fetus. Gabapentin has been shown to cause birth defects in animals‚ but it is not known whether it can cause birth defects in humans. There have been a few reports of birth defects in babies whose mothers took gabapentin during pregnancy‚ but it is not clear whether gabapentin was the cause of the birth defects. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant‚ talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking gabapentin. Your doctor may recommend that you stop taking gabapentin before you become pregnant or that you switch to a different medication. If you are taking gabapentin and you become pregnant‚ do not stop taking it without talking to your doctor. Stopping gabapentin suddenly can cause seizures‚ which can be dangerous for both you and your baby. Gabapentin passes into breast milk. It is not known whether gabapentin can harm a breastfeeding baby. If you are breastfeeding‚ talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking gabapentin. Your doctor may recommend that you stop taking gabapentin or that you switch to a different medication. Gabapentin is not a cure for any of the conditions it is used to treat‚ but it can help to control the symptoms. It is important to take gabapentin exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more or less of it than prescribed‚ and do not stop taking it without talking to your doctor first.Gabapentin and Breastfeeding
Gabapentin passes into breast milk. It is not known whether gabapentin can harm a breastfeeding baby. However‚ gabapentin has been shown to cause side effects in breastfed babies‚ such as drowsiness‚ irritability‚ and difficulty feeding. If you are breastfeeding‚ talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking gabapentin. Your doctor may recommend that you stop taking gabapentin or that you switch to a different medication. If you are taking gabapentin and you want to breastfeed‚ there are a few things you can do to reduce the risk of side effects in your baby⁚- Take gabapentin at the lowest dose possible.
- Take gabapentin at bedtime‚ so that your baby is less likely to be exposed to it during the day.
- Breastfeed your baby for shorter periods of time.
- Monitor your baby for side effects‚ such as drowsiness‚ irritability‚ and difficulty feeding.
Gabapentin and Alcohol
Gabapentin and alcohol can both cause drowsiness and dizziness. Taking gabapentin with alcohol can increase these side effects‚ which can be dangerous. Gabapentin can also increase the effects of alcohol‚ which can lead to impaired judgment‚ coordination‚ and balance. Drinking alcohol while taking gabapentin can also increase the risk of seizures in people with a history of seizures. For these reasons‚ it is important to avoid drinking alcohol while taking gabapentin. If you are taking gabapentin and you want to drink alcohol‚ talk to your doctor first. Your doctor may recommend that you stop taking gabapentin before you drink alcohol or that you limit the amount of alcohol you drink. Gabapentin is not a cure for any of the conditions it is used to treat‚ but it can help to control the symptoms. It is important to take gabapentin exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more or less of it than prescribed‚ and do not stop taking it without talking to your doctor first.DETAILS
Gabapentin
4.9 stars -1347 reviews
DOORS OPEN: 18:30
START: 19:00
Gabapentin and Driving
Gabapentin can cause drowsiness‚ dizziness‚ and impaired coordination. These side effects can make it dangerous to drive or operate heavy machinery. If you are taking gabapentin‚ do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how the medication affects you. If you experience any side effects that make it difficult to drive or operate heavy machinery‚ stop taking gabapentin and talk to your doctor. Gabapentin can also increase the effects of alcohol. If you are taking gabapentin‚ do not drink alcohol and drive or operate heavy machinery. Gabapentin is not a cure for any of the conditions it is used to treat‚ but it can help to control the symptoms. It is important to take gabapentin exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more or less of it than prescribed‚ and do not stop taking it without talking to your doctor first.Gabapentin and Other Medications
Gabapentin can interact with other medications‚ such as⁚- Antacids (such as aluminum hydroxide‚ calcium carbonate‚ and magnesium hydroxide)⁚ Antacids can decrease the absorption of gabapentin‚ which can lead to lower levels of gabapentin in the blood.
- Opioids (such as codeine‚ hydrocodone‚ and oxycodone)⁚ Opioids can increase the sedative effects of gabapentin‚ which can lead to drowsiness‚ dizziness‚ and difficulty concentrating.
- Sedatives (such as benzodiazepines‚ barbiturates‚ and nonbenzodiazepine hypnotics)⁚ Sedatives can increase the sedative effects of gabapentin‚ which can lead to drowsiness‚ dizziness‚ and difficulty concentrating.
- Anticonvulsants (such as carbamazepine‚ phenytoin‚ and valproic acid)⁚ Gabapentin can increase the levels of these anticonvulsants in the blood‚ which can lead to increased side effects.
- Antidepressants (such as amitriptyline‚ bupropion‚ and fluoxetine)⁚ Gabapentin can increase the levels of these antidepressants in the blood‚ which can lead to increased side effects.
- Anticoagulants (such as warfarin)⁚ Gabapentin can increase the effects of these anticoagulants‚ which can lead to an increased risk of bleeding.
Gabapentin and Pets
Gabapentin is sometimes used to treat seizures‚ pain‚ and anxiety in pets. Gabapentin is generally safe for pets‚ but it can cause side effects‚ such as⁚- Drowsiness
- Ataxia (difficulty with coordination and balance)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
Gabapentin and Addiction
Gabapentin is a medication that is used to treat a variety of conditions‚ including seizures‚ nerve pain‚ and restless legs syndrome. Gabapentin is not a controlled substance‚ but it can be habit-forming in some people. People who abuse gabapentin may take it in high doses to get high. Gabapentin can produce a feeling of euphoria and relaxation. However‚ gabapentin abuse can also lead to a number of serious health problems‚ including⁚- Seizures
- Coma
- Respiratory depression
- Death
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Detoxification
- CounselingMedication
Gabapentin and Overdose
Gabapentin overdose can occur when someone takes more gabapentin than prescribed or recommended. Gabapentin overdose can lead to a number of serious health problems‚ including⁚- Seizures
- Coma
- Respiratory depression
- Death
- Intravenous fluids
- Oxygen
- Seizure medication
- Ventilator support
Gabapentin and Withdrawal
Gabapentin withdrawal can occur when someone who has been taking gabapentin for a long period of time suddenly stops taking the medication. Gabapentin withdrawal can cause a number of unpleasant symptoms‚ including⁚- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Tremors
- Seizures
Gabapentin and Generic Brands
- Gabapentin is available as both a brand-name medication and a generic medication. The brand-name medication is Neurontin. The generic medication is available from a number of different manufacturers. Gabapentin is a prescription medication that is used to treat a variety of conditions‚ including seizures‚ nerve pain‚ and restless legs syndrome. Gabapentin is not a cure for any of these conditions‚ but it can help to control the symptoms. The generic medication is just as effective as the brand-name medication. However‚ the generic medication is typically much cheaper than the brand-name medication. If you are prescribed gabapentin‚ you can ask your doctor if the generic medication is available. If the generic medication is available‚ you may be able to save money by taking the generic medication instead of the brand-name medication. Gabapentin is not a controlled substance‚ but it can be habit-forming in some people. It is important to take gabapentin exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more or less of it than prescribed‚ and do not stop taking it without talking to your doctor first. If you have any questions about gabapentin‚ talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
Gabapentin and Cost
The cost of gabapentin can vary depending on a number of factors‚ including the dosage‚ the quantity‚ and the pharmacy where you fill your prescription. The average cost of a 30-day supply of gabapentin is between $20 and $40. However‚ the cost can be higher if you need a higher dosage or a larger quantity. There are a number of ways to save money on gabapentin. One way is to ask your doctor if the generic medication is available. The generic medication is just as effective as the brand-name medication‚ but it is typically much cheaper. Another way to save money on gabapentin is to use a discount card. There are a number of different discount cards available‚ and they can save you up to 80% on the cost of your prescription. Finally‚ you can also save money on gabapentin by shopping around. Compare the prices at different pharmacies before you fill your prescription. You may be able to find a lower price at one pharmacy than at another. Gabapentin is an important medication for many people. It can help to control the symptoms of a variety of conditions‚ including seizures‚ nerve pain‚ and restless legs syndrome. If you are prescribed gabapentin‚ talk to your doctor about the cost and ask if there are any ways to save money.Gabapentin and Insurance
Gabapentin is covered by most insurance plans. However‚ the coverage may vary depending on the plan. Some plans may require you to get prior authorization from your doctor before they will cover gabapentin; Other plans may have a deductible or coinsurance that you have to pay before the insurance will start to cover the cost of gabapentin.
If you are not sure whether your insurance plan covers gabapentin‚ you can call your insurance company and ask. You can also check your insurance plan's website or member portal to see if gabapentin is covered.
If you do not have insurance‚ there are a number of ways to save money on gabapentin. One way is to ask your doctor if the generic medication is available. The generic medication is just as effective as the brand-name medication‚ but it is typically much cheaper.
Another way to save money on gabapentin is to use a discount card. There are a number of different discount cards available‚ and they can save you up to 80% on the cost of your prescription.
Finally‚ you can also save money on gabapentin by shopping around. Compare the prices at different pharmacies before you fill your prescription. You may be able to find a lower price at one pharmacy than at another.
Gabapentin is an important medication for many people. It can help to control the symptoms of a variety of conditions‚ including seizures‚ nerve pain‚ and restless legs syndrome. If you are prescribed gabapentin‚ talk to your doctor about the cost and ask if there are any ways to save money.
Gabapentin and Financial Assistance
There are a number of programs available to help people afford gabapentin. These programs include⁚- Patient assistance programs⁚ Patient assistance programs are offered by pharmaceutical companies to help people who cannot afford their medications. These programs typically require you to meet certain criteria‚ such as having a low income or being uninsured. If you qualify for a patient assistance program‚ you may be able to get gabapentin for free or at a reduced cost.
- Medicare and Medicaid⁚ Medicare and Medicaid are government health insurance programs that may cover the cost of gabapentin. Medicare is available to people who are 65 or older‚ and Medicaid is available to people with low incomes. If you qualify for Medicare or Medicaid‚ you may be able to get gabapentin for free or at a reduced cost.
- Insurance⁚ Gabapentin is covered by most insurance plans. However‚ the coverage may vary depending on the plan. Some plans may require you to get prior authorization from your doctor before they will cover gabapentin. Other plans may have a deductible or coinsurance that you have to pay before the insurance will start to cover the cost of gabapentin. If you are not sure whether your insurance plan covers gabapentin‚ you can call your insurance company and ask.
Gabapentin and Patient Assistance Programs
Patient assistance programs are offered by pharmaceutical companies to help people who cannot afford their medications. These programs typically require you to meet certain criteria‚ such as having a low income or being uninsured. If you qualify for a patient assistance program‚ you may be able to get gabapentin for free or at a reduced cost. There are a number of different patient assistance programs available for gabapentin. Some of these programs are offered by the manufacturer of gabapentin‚ and others are offered by independent organizations. To find a patient assistance program for gabapentin‚ you can visit the following websites⁚- NeedyMeds
- RxAssist
- Partnership for Prescription Assistance
GET IN TOUCH