Neurontin (Gabapentin) Review

Neurontin, which is generically prescribed as gabapentin, is commonly used in the treatment of specific seizure disorders. Neurontin can also be used as a pain reliever, most often for the painful nerve conditions associated with herpes or the shingles. The effect on the chemicals and nerves in the body makes it an effective anti-seizure medication and a nerve related pain reliever.

Neurontin should not be prescribed for all patients. A thorough medical history should be assessed prior to the prescription of this medication. Patients with a medical history which includes kidney disease, liver disease, or heart disease may not be able to take Neurontin or may require careful monitoring while taking this medication, depending on the specific condition as well as the severity of the condition.

The American Food and Drug Administration rated Neurontin as a pregnancy risk category C, which means that this medication may or may not cause harm or birth defects in an unborn baby. Neurontin has been shown to pass through the mother’s breast milk and may cause negative effects to a nursing baby. The prescribing physician should not prescribe this medication to women who are pregnant. Women who cease the use of birth control should inform the prescribing physician beforehand.

There is a risk of side effects associated with Neurontin, some of which may be severe. Patients experiencing severe side effects should seek immediate emergency medical attention. The most serious side effect possible is an allergic reaction, which will present with symptoms which include facial swelling, swelling of the lips, mouth, tongue, or throat, hives, and difficulty breathing. Other serious side effects which require emergency medical treatment include symptoms such as blurry vision, double vision, dizziness, drowsiness, irregular movements of the eyes, especially back and forth movements, poor coordination, nausea, vomiting, and tremors.

Children between the ages of 3 and 12 should be taken to the nearest emergency medical facility if they are experiencing serious emotional reactions, hostility, restlessness, hyperactivity, an increase in body movements, amnesia, or problems with concentration. This medication is not recommended for children under the age of 3.

Less serious side effects generally do not require medical attention although they should be reported to the prescribing physician. Patients should be encouraged to report all side effects to help determine the best dose for their system. Less serious side effects can often be reduced by altering the dosage of Neurontin. Less serious side effects include symptoms such as anxiety, mild shaking, mild nausea, and vision changes.

Neurontin should be taken exactly as it has been prescribed. If the patient misses a dose, the dose should be taken as soon as it has been remembered. The missed dose should be skipped if it is nearing time for the next regular dose to avoid the possibility of an overdose. An overdose requires immediate emergency medical attention. An overdose may present with symptoms which include double vision or other vision problems, poor coordination, drowsiness, slurred speech, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing.

There is a risk of drug interactions associated with Neurontin, some of which may be life threatening. A thorough medical history and complete medication list should be assessed before prescribing this medication. Patients should always check with the prescribing physician prior to taking any new medications, which includes over the counter medications, herbal remedies and supplements, and even over the counter or prescription vitamins. Neurontin has bee proven to negatively interact with medications such as antacids, antidepressants, anxiety relievers, pain relievers, analgesics, muscle relaxants, alcohol, antihistamines, and sedatives or sleep aids.