MedDataToolGabapentin is a medication used to help manage nerve pain after shingles and to treat certain types of seizures in adults and children aged three and older. It works by affecting the way nerves send messages to the brain, which can help reduce pain and prevent seizures. You can take it in capsule form, usually starting with 300 mg three times a day, and the dose can go up to a maximum of 600 mg three times a day, depending on your needs. It's important to know that gabapentin should not be taken if you have had an allergic reaction to it or its ingredients. Additionally, if you are taking opioids, be cautious, as combining them with gabapentin can increase the risk of serious breathing problems.
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Uses
- Postherpetic neuralgia in adults.
- Partial onset seizures in adults and children 3 years and older.
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Dosage
Adults with postherpetic neuralgia start with 300 mg on Day 1, increasing to 900 mg by Day 3.
Adults with partial onset seizures start with 300 mg three times daily.
Children 3 to 11 years start with 10 to 15 mg/kg/day in three doses.
Elderly patients may need dose adjustments due to decreased renal function.
Take Gabapentin orally with or without food, three times a day.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.
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Side effects
Common
Dizzinesssomnolenceperipheral edemafatiguenausea
Serious
Anaphylaxissuicidal thoughtsrespiratory depressionwithdrawal seizures
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Warnings
⚠ Important warnings
- Risk of serious allergic reactions like DRESS.
- May cause sedation and dizziness.
- Monitor for suicidal behavior.
- Adjust dose for patients with kidney problems.
- Use caution in elderly patients due to potential renal issues.
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Drug interactions
- Morphineincreased risk of respiratory depressionMonitor
- Hydrocodonedecreased exposure and effectCaution
- Maaloxreduces gabapentin absorption by 20%Caution
- Cimetidinealters renal excretion of gabapentin.Caution
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Answers pulled from the FDA label only.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).