What Should I Know Before I Take Gabapentin (Neurontin) ?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to gabapentin. Before taking gabapentin, tell your doctor if you have kidney, liver, or heart disease.

You may have thoughts about suicide while taking gabapentin. Your doctor will need to check you at regular visits. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

Report any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor, such as: mood or behavior changes, anxiety, depression, or if you feel agitated, hostile, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.

Do not stop taking gabapentin for seizures without first talking to your doctor, even if you feel fine. You may have increased seizures if you stop using gabapentin suddenly. You may need to use less and less before you stop the medication completely. Contact your doctor if your seizures get worse or you have them more often while taking gabapentin.

Wear a medical alert tag or carry an ID card stating that you take gabapentin. Any doctor, dentist, or emergency medical care provider who treats you should know that you take seizure medication.

What Should I Know Before I Take Gabapentin (Neurontin) ?

Before taking gabapentin (Neurontin), it’s important to understand its potential effects, side effects, and any necessary precautions. Here are the key things to know:

1. Purpose of Gabapentin

• Gabapentin is commonly prescribed for conditions such as nerve pain (neuropathy), epilepsy (to prevent seizures), and sometimes for other off-label uses like anxiety or migraine prevention. Be sure to understand why it’s being prescribed and discuss expectations with your doctor.

2. How to Take Gabapentin

• Follow the dosing schedule exactly as prescribed, usually taken one to three times daily. Take gabapentin with or without food, but try to stay consistent with your choice.
• Do not abruptly stop taking gabapentin, as it can cause withdrawal symptoms or increase the risk of seizures in people with epilepsy. If you need to stop, your doctor will guide you through a gradual reduction in dosage.

3. Common Side Effects

• Be prepared for possible side effects, especially when starting gabapentin or increasing the dose. Common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, blurred vision, and unsteadiness.
• These effects may lessen as your body adjusts to the medication, but be cautious with activities that require alertness, like driving, until you know how gabapentin affects you.

4. Risk of CNS Depression

• Gabapentin is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant, meaning it can cause drowsiness and sedation. Combining gabapentin with alcohol, opioids, or other sedative drugs can amplify these effects, increasing the risk of respiratory depression, dizziness, and overdose.
• Inform your doctor about any medications you’re taking, especially those with sedative effects, to avoid potential interactions.

5. Medical History Considerations

• Kidney Function: Gabapentin is processed and excreted by the kidneys, so people with kidney disease or impaired kidney function may need adjusted doses.
• Mental Health: Gabapentin can sometimes cause or worsen mood changes, including depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. If you have a history of mental health conditions, let your doctor know and report any unusual changes in mood or behavior.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Gabapentin is not fully studied in pregnancy or breastfeeding, so discuss potential risks with your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

6. Potential Drug Interactions

• Antacids: Gabapentin’s absorption can be reduced by antacids containing aluminum or magnesium. It’s recommended to wait at least two hours after taking an antacid to take gabapentin.
• Other CNS Depressants: As mentioned, gabapentin can interact with other CNS depressants (e.g., opioids, sedatives), increasing the risk of side effects.
• Always provide a complete list of any supplements, over-the-counter medications, and prescriptions to your doctor.

7. Monitoring and Follow-Up

• Regular follow-up appointments are essential to ensure gabapentin is working effectively and safely, especially when starting or adjusting doses.
• Your doctor may check for side effects, adjust the dose if needed, and monitor for signs of tolerance or dependency, particularly if gabapentin is used long-term.

8. Signs of Overdose

• Symptoms of overdose include extreme drowsiness, slurred speech, double vision, weakness, and difficulty breathing. If an overdose is suspected, seek medical attention immediately.