What is Gabapentin?

• Release the Pain of Postherpetic Neuralgia (Stabbing pain or aches)
• Treat restless legs syndrome (Discomfort in the legs)
• Seizures- Gabapentin is used in treating focal seizures. These are used with other seizure medications in adults who have epilepsy.
• Postherpetic neuralgia- The pain from nerve damage that is caused by shingles, a painful rash that affects adults.
• Gabapentin can be taken by children and adults to treat epilepsy.

Common Gabapentin side effects are:

• Dizziness
• Sleepiness
• Water retention
• Problem in Walking

Serious side effects are:

• Back pain
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Stomach Disease
• Weight gain
• Increased appetite
• Blurry vision
• Bruising
• Cough
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Flu

If the children are facing these serious problems, take them to hospitals immediately.

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Mood changes
• Behavioral problems
• Hyperactivity
• Lack of concentration

• Allergies and Medications: Please disclose any allergic reactions(if any) and all vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you're currently taking.
• Other Medications: Mention if you're using antidepressants, antihistamines, anxiety medications, or any other drugs that could potentially interact with Gabapentin or exacerbate mental illness.
• Existing Health Conditions: If you have any of the following health issues:
  • Liver Disease
  • Kidney Disease
  • Myasthenia Gravis
  • Heartbeat Disorder
  • Low levels of potassium in the blood

• Feeling Sleepy or Dizzy: Regular Gabapentin use can cause you to fall asleep. Contact your doctor and try to decrease the dosage.
• Nausea: Try to take Gabapentin with or after a meal. Avoid eating spicy foods.
• Dry mouth: Chew sugar-free gums to avoid dry mouth.
• Headaches: If you're facing severe headaches, drink enough water. Avoid the consumption of alcohol. Talk to a doctor if you're facing some serious problems.

Gabapentin Tablets

• Take Gabapentin tablets with a full glass of water three times a day.

Gabapentin Syrup

• Shake well before use.
• Use a dosing spoon or measuring cup for accurate measurement.
• Rinse the measuring device before and after each use.

Dosage Forms of Gabapentin

• Gabapentin Capsule: Available in 100mg, 300mg, and 400mg strengths.

Dosage for Postherpetic Neuralgia

Adult Dosage:

• Starting Dosage:
  • Day 1: 300mg
  • Day 2: 600mg (twice a day)
  • Day 3: 900mg (three times a day)
• Maximum Dosage: 1800mg per day (600mg three times a day)

Missed Dose

Missing one or two doses of Gabapentin typically won't affect your body, but it's important to stay consistent with your medication schedule. However, follow your doctor's advice if you miss a dose.

Overdose

An accidental overdose of Gabapentin can have harmful effects on bodily functions and may require medical attention. If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical assistance.

• Drowsiness
• Depression
• Hypersensitivity
• Allergy

People with serious health conditions

People with Epilepsy

Don’t stop the usage of gabapentin suddenly. It can increase the risk of status epilepticus. These can cause some medical emergencies that occur for 30 minutes or more.

Pregnant women

Gabapentin is not evaluated for pregnant women. If a woman is using the drug during her pregnancy, there is no such high risk of pregnancy loss, birth defects or any other problems. But to be safe, consult your doctor before taking the medicine.

Breastfeeding

Gabapentin passes into the breast milk. It can cause some side effects to children who are breastfed. These can include diarrhea, vomiting and rash. Before taking Gabapentin while breastfeeding, consult your doctor.

• Direct contact with heat, air and light may damage your medicines.
• The exposure of medicine may cause some harmful effects.
• The medicine must be kept in a safe place and out of children's reach.
• Mainly, the drug should be kept at room temperature between68ºF and 77ºF (20ºC and 25ºC).