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Gabapentin

 

Gabapentin (generic Neurontin) Review

brand name: Neurontin
generic name: Gabapentin

How does it work?

Neurontin capsules and tablets contain the active ingredient gabapentin, which is a medicine that is mainly used to treat epilepsy. (NB Gabapentin is also available without a brand name, ie as the generic medicine .) Gabapentin works by stabilising electrical activity in the brain.

The brain and nerves are made up of many nerve cells that communicate with each other through electrical signals. These signals must be carefully regulated for the brain and nerves to function properly. When abnormally rapid and repetitive electrical signals are released in the brain, the brain becomes over-stimulated and normal function is disturbed. This can result in seizures or fits.

Gabapentin prevents epileptic fits by preventing the excessive electrical activity in the brain. It is thought to do this by mimicking the activity of a neurotransmitter called GABA.

Neurotransmitters are natural body chemicals that are stored in nerve cells. They are involved in transmitting messages between the nerve cells. GABA is a neurotransmitter that acts as a natural 'nerve calming' agent. It helps keep the nerve activity in the brain in balance. Gabapentin is structurally similar to GABA and so is thought to mimick its action. This helps calm the nerve activity in the brain.

Gabapentin is used as an add-on treatment for adults whose epilepsy has not been well controlled by other antiepileptic medicines, such as carbamazepine and phenytoin, or for people who cannot take these older medicines. It is used to prevent partial seizures, and partial seizures that spread to secondary generalised seizures.

As gabapentin stabilises electrical nerve activity, it can also be used to treat pain that occurs a result of damage to or a disturbance in the function of nerves (neuropathic pain).

What should I avoid while taking Gabapentin (Neurontin)?

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Gabapentin may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities. Avoid alcohol during treatment with Gabapentin (Neurontin). Alcohol may increase the risk of having side effects while taking Gabapentin.

What are Gabapentin (Neurontin) capsules or tablets?

Gabapentin (Neurontin®) is effective in helping to control partial seizures (convulsions) in adults with epilepsy. Gabapentin is also used to help relieve certain types of nerve pain, and may be prescribed for other nervous system disorders. Generic Gabapentin (Neurontin) capsules and tablets are available.

How should you take Neurontin?

Do not increase or decrease dosage of this medication without your doctor's approval; and 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 Neurontin at least 2 hours after the antacid.

--Storage instructions...

Store capsules and tablets at room temperature. Keep the oral solution refrigerated.

You may take Neurontin 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.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

• This medicine passes into breast milk, but the effect of this on a nursing infant is unknown. For this reason, women who need to take this medicine should not breastfeed their infants. Seek medical advice from your doctor.
  
  
• The safety of this medicine for use during pregnancy has not been established. It is not recommended for use in pregnancy unless considered essential by your doctor. Seek medical advice from your doctor.
  
  

Gabapentin (Neurontin) Capsules is used for:

Treating seizures associated with epilepsy. It may also be used for treating nerve pain associated with herpes zoster (shingles) infection (postherpetic neuralgia). It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Gabapentin (Neurontin) Capsules is an anticonvulsant. The exact way that it works to prevent seizures and nerve pain is unknown.