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Gabapentin |
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What is Gabapentin and why is it prescribed? Gabapentin has two uses. First, it may be prescribed with other medications to treat partial seizures. It can be used whether or not the seizures eventually become general and result in loss of consciousness. Second, it can be used to relieve the burning nerve pain that sometimes persists for months or even years after an attack of shingles. Take Gabapentin exactly as directed by your doctor. To effectively control your seizures, it is important that you take Gabapentin 3 times a day, approximately every 8 hours. You should not go longer than 12 hours without a dose of medication. How should you take Gabapentin? Follow your doctors directions for taking Gabapentin. Do not increase or decrease dosage of Gabapentin without your doctor's approval. Do not suddenly stop taking it, as this may cause an increase in the frequency of your seizures. If you are taking an antacid such as Maalox, take Gabapentin at least 2 hours after the antacid. You may take Gabapentin with or without food. If you miss a dose try not to allow more than 12 hours to pass between doses. Do not double doses. Store capsules and tablets at room temperature. Keep the oral solution refrigerated. Are there any Gabapentin side effects? Gabapentin side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. When taken for epilepsy, more common Gabapentin side effects may include blurred, dimmed, or double vision, bronchitis (in children), dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, fever (in children), involuntary eye movement, itchy, runny nose, lack of muscular coordination, nausea, tremor, viral infection (in children), vomiting, and weight increase (in children). When taken for nerve pain, more common Gabapentin side effects may include accidental injury, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, headache, infection, lack of muscular coordination, nausea, swelling in arms and legs, vomiting, and weakness. A wide variety of uncommon and rare Gabapentin side effects have also been reported. If you develop any new or unusual symptoms while taking Gabapentin, be sure to let your doctor know. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Gabapentin? If Gabapentin is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Gabapentin with Antacids (such as Maalox), Hydrocodone (Lortab, Vicodin), Naproxen (Naprosyn), or Morphine (Kadian, MS Contin). Are there any special warnings about Gabapentin? Gabapentin causes some people to become drowsy and less alert. Combining it with morphine makes this more likely. Do not drive or operate dangerous machinery or participate in any hazardous activity that requires full mental alertness until you are certain Gabapentin does not have this effect on you. In children, Gabapentin occasionally triggers behavioral problems such as unstable emotions, hostility, aggression, hyperactivity, and lack of concentration. However, such problems are usually mild. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any kidney problems or are on hemodialysis, as your doctor will need to adjust your dosage of Gabapentin. |
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Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor. |
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