Neurontin

The active ingredient in Neurontin is gabapentin, which is an antiepileptic medication. It shares structural similarities with the brain chemical gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which relaxes neurons. Although the exact mechanism of action of gabapentin (Neurontin), a medication used to treat seizures and nerve pain, is unknown, it is believed to function by reducing the activation of the nerves responsible for these conditions.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide, before using Neurontin. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of $Neurontin:

• Your dosage requirements may change if your doctor switches up the brand, strength, or kind of gabapentin you take. If you have any questions concerning the form of gabapentin that you are given at the pharmacy, ask the pharmacist.
• You can take Neurontin with or without food.
• Avoid crushing, chewing, breaking, or opening the capsule or tablet; instead, swallow it whole.
• Carefully measure liquid medications. Use a medication dose-measuring tool (not a kitchen spoon) or the supplied dosing syringe.
• If you break a tablet and take only half of it, take the other half at your next dose. Half-tablets not used within 28 days of breaking the scored tablet should be discarded.

The most common side effects of gabapentin include:

• Increased risk of sleepiness or drowsiness.
• Dizziness.
• Uncontrollable eye movements.
• Dry mouth.
• Weight gain.
• Double vision.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Neurontin. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Hives, skin rash, blisters, fever, lip or tongue swelling, breathing problems, and skin reddening are examples of a severe allergic reaction or skin reaction like Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS).
• Worsening depression, suicidal thoughts or behaviors, or mood changes. Call your doctor if you or a loved one notices new or worsening symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, agitation, restlessness, trouble sleeping, panic attacks, feelings of aggression or anger, or impulsive behaviors.
• Withdrawal symptoms, if Neurontin is stopped suddenly.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Neurontin. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Neurontin, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including whether you have:

• Lung conditions include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or breathing issues.
• Kidney problems, or if you're receiving dialysis.
• Diabetes.
• Depression or thoughts of suicide.
• An addiction to drugs or you drink alcohol.
• Seizures (unless you are on Neurontin to manage seizures).
• Liver disease.
• Panic attacks.
• Heart problems.

You should not take Neurontin if you are allergic to gabapentin or any of the inactive ingredients in the product.

After taking gabapentin, you should see an improvement in your nerve pain within a week or two, however, some people may experience a longer time. But for others, the benefits are immediately apparent.

It can take several weeks to a few months for gabapentin to reach its full effectiveness in controlling seizures. This will depend on several factors, including the severity of your seizures and your individual response to the drug.

When Neurontin is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

Alcohol, opioids or other prescription pain medicines, several sleep or anxiety drugs, antidepressants, treatments for seizures like phenobarbital, and antacids (Maalox) that include magnesium or aluminum are among the compounds that interact with Neurontin (gabapentin).

Neurontin is available in several dosage forms (oral solution, tablet, and capsule) in various strengths.

Adults with shingles-related nerve pain: The initial dosage is 300 mg taken orally once a day on Day 1, then twice daily on Day 2, and finally three times daily beginning on Day 3.

Partial seizures: 12 years of age and adults: 300 mg taken orally three times a day is the starting dose. Oral administration of 300–600 mg Neurontin tablets three times a day is the maintenance dosage.

Children ages 3 to 12: The initial dosage is 10–15 mg/kg per day, split into three smaller doses, and taken orally throughout the day. The maintenance dose, which is given throughout the day in three smaller doses, varies from 25 mg/kg to 40 mg/kg each day.

Store at room temperature and keep out of reach of children.

Pfizer is the company that manufactures Neurontin.

There are lower-cost generics available for Neurontin.

Even if you feel fine, do not abruptly stop taking Neurontin. Abruptly stopping could result in further seizures or withdrawal symptoms. When it comes to tapering your dosage, heed your doctor's advice.

Controlling seizures is crucial during pregnancy since they can be harmful to both the mother and the unborn baby. If you become pregnant, notify your doctor immediately. Do not begin or stop using Neurontin for seizures without first consulting your doctor. If you decide to take Neurontin while you are pregnant, it is recommended to enroll in the North American Antiepileptic Drug (NAAED) Pregnancy Registry to monitor the safety of Neurontin during your pregnancy.

Neurontin can be found in breast milk, but the effects on your infant and milk production are not known. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.