Neurontin (gabapentin) is a medication that is used to treat a variety of conditions, including epilepsy, postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), and restless legs syndrome (RLS). It is also used off-label for other conditions, such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, and chronic pain.
How does Neurontin work?
Neurontin is thought to work by increasing the activity of a neurotransmitter called GABA. GABA is a calming neurotransmitter that helps to inhibit the activity of nerve cells. By increasing the activity of GABA, Neurontin helps to reduce seizures and nerve pain.
Who can take Neurontin?
Neurontin is generally safe for most people to take. However, it is not recommended for people who are allergic to gabapentin or other similar medications. It is also not recommended for people who are taking certain other medications, such as certain anticonvulsants and opioids.
Uses of Neurontin
The main uses of Neurontin are:
- Epilepsy: Neurontin is used to treat partial seizures, which are the most common type of seizure. It is usually used as an add-on medication to other anticonvulsants.
- Postherpetic neuralgia: PHN is a chronic pain condition that can occur after a shingles infection. Neurontin is used to relieve the pain and tingling associated with PHN.
- Restless legs syndrome: RLS is a condition that causes an uncontrollable urge to move the legs. Neurontin is used to relieve the symptoms of RLS, such as leg cramps, restlessness, and pain.
- Other conditions: Neurontin is also used off-label for other conditions, such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, and chronic pain. However, more research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of Neurontin for these conditions.
Side effects of Neurontin
The most common side effects of Neurontin are:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Ataxia (loss of balance)
- Fatigue
- Nystagmus (involuntary eye movement)
- Headache
- Weight gain
- Upset stomach
- Constipation
Serious side effects of Neurontin are rare, but they can include:
- Suicidal thoughts or actions
- Stevens-Johnson syndrome (a serious skin reaction)
- Liver damage
How to take Neurontin
Neurontin is taken by mouth. The dosage is different for each condition, so it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions. Neurontin can be taken with or without food.
Precautions and warnings
There are a few things to keep in mind when taking Neurontin:
- Do not drink alcohol while taking Neurontin. Alcohol can increase the risk of side effects.
- Be careful when driving or operating machinery after taking Neurontin. Drowsiness and dizziness can impair your ability to do these activities safely.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Neurontin can pass into breast milk and may affect a nursing baby.
- Tell your doctor about all of the medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Neurontin can interact with other medications.
Conclusion
Neurontin is a safe and effective medication for a variety of conditions. However, it is important to be aware of the side effects and precautions before taking it. If you have any questions or concerns, talk to your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between Neurontin and Gralise?
Neurontin and Gralise are both brand-name medications that contain the same active ingredient, gabapentin. However, Gralise is a controlled-release form of gabapentin, which means that it releases the medication into your bloodstream slowly over time. This can help to reduce the risk of side effects such as dizziness and drowsiness.
2. How long does it take for Neurontin to start working?
The time it takes for Neurontin to start working varies depending on the condition being treated. For epilepsy, it may take several weeks to see a significant improvement. For PHN, it may take 1-2 weeks to see relief from pain. For RLS, it may take 1-2 days to see relief from symptoms.
3. What are the long-term side effects of Neurontin?
The long-term side effects of Neurontin are not well-known, as it has only been on the market for a relatively short time. However, some possible long-term side effects include weight gain, difficulty concentrating, and blurry vision.
4. Can I stop taking Neurontin suddenly?
No, you should not stop taking Neurontin suddenly. Stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms, such as anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. If you need to stop taking Neurontin, your doctor will slowly taper your dose over time.
5. Is Neurontin addictive?
Neurontin is not considered to be addictive. However, it is possible to develop a physical dependence on the medication. This means that you may experience withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking it suddenly.
6. What is the cost of Neurontin?
The cost of Neurontin varies depending on the dosage and the form of the medication (tablets, capsules, or liquid). The average retail price for a 30-day supply of Neurontin tablets is about $200. However, there are many ways to save money on Neurontin, such as using a generic version, getting a prescription discount card, or participating in a manufacturer’s patient assistance program.
