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GENERIC
NAME: gabapentin
BRAND NAME:
Neurontin
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM:
Gabapentin is in the class of drugs called
anticonvulsants because they are used to treat
seizures (epilepsy) and herpes zoster
(shingles). Gabapentin is related to the brain
chemical gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) but
exactly how it works is
unknown.
PRESCRIPTION:
yes
GENERIC AVAILABLE:
no
PREPARATIONS: Capsules are
available in 100mg, 300mg, 400mg, and 800mg
sizes by Park-Davis labs.
STORAGE: Store in a dry
place at 15-30 degrees C (69-86
F)
PRESCRIBED FOR: Gabapentin
is used for treating seizure disorders and
herpes zoster (shingles).
DOSING: Gabapentin can be
taken with or without food at doses specifically
directed by your physician. Individual doses
vary greatly between individuals. Usually the
drug is taken two to three times daily. It is
currently not approved under the age of 12 years
old. If discontinued, gabapentin should be
gradually withdrawn (usually over one week) as
directed by the doctor.
DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Gabapentin appears to be relatively safe and has
not been shown to interact with other drugs
except for it's potential of added sedation.
Gabapentin should not be taken within 2 hours of
Maalox. Gabapentin may interfere with the
reading of N- Multistix in detecting urine
protein.
SIDE EFFECTS: Neurontin has
few side effects which include sleepiness,
dizziness, unsteady gait, fatigue and eye
twitching. | 
