Gabapentin belongs to a group of drugs known as anticonvulsants. Initially formulated to treat epilepsy, it controls certain kinds of epileptic seizures by decreasing the amount of chemicals in the body which cause convulsions, and reduces any abnormal excitement carried by the nerves to the brain.
Gabapentin was also discovered to have effective pain-relieving properties. It works by altering the way the nerves perceive pain. At present, it is widely used to ease neuropathic pain, which results from injuries to the nervous system, and pain stemming postherpetic neuralgia, a type of nerve pain which is characterized by burning or stabbing sensations in the skin and nerve fibers that are a direct result of shingles (Herpes zoster).
Although not mentioned in its product's label, Gabapentin is also used to treat patients with diabetes who experience peripheral neuropathic pain, which is felt as a numbness or tingling sensation resulting from nerve damage brought about by diabetes. Women undergoing treatment for breast cancer, or those going through menopause who suffer from sudden episodes of extreme heat and sweating find that Gabapentin is also effective in treating and inhibiting the occurrence of these hot flashes.
Gabapentin is also useful in treating migraines, post-operative pain caused by incorrectly reconnected nerves, and nystagmus (uncontrollable eye movement). It has been found to stabilize the moods of patients diagnosed with bipolar disorder, carrying fewer side effects compared to other bipolar drugs in the market.
Before taking Gabapentin, patients should inform their doctor if they are allergic to the drug or any of its components. The doctor should take note whether the patient has had a history of kidney disease, is pregnant, or plans to become pregnant during treatment. Gabapentin has been classified by the FDA as Pregnancy Category C and its use may inadvertently harm the fetus. Women should also let their doctor know if they are breastfeeding, as this drug can pass into breast milk.
If the patient is taking other medications like hydrocodone (Vicodin), morphine (Avinza, Kadian) and naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn), they should let their doctor know so their Gabapentin dosage can be adjusted and their condition closely monitored for any side effects.
Patients should refrain from taking antacids two hours prior to taking Gabapentin, and to update their doctor if they are planning to have any kind of surgical procedure, including dental operations done while they are taking the medication.
Gabapentin can cause drowsiness and lightheadedness. While under medication, patients are advised not to drive a vehicle or operate any kind of machinery. Imbibing alcohol and taking antihistamines while on Gabapentin may also exacerbate dizziness. Children taking Gabapentin may exhibit mood swings, hyperactivity, difficulty concentrating and drowsiness. Parents should carefully monitor their children's activities while they are taking this medication.
Elderly people taking Gabapentin may have incidences of higher blood levels as it takes longer for the drug to pass out of their system. They may need to have a dosage adjustment if this occurs.
Gabapentin may also cause blurry or double vision, peripheral edema (swelling of the hands and feet), facial swelling, asthenia (weakness and lack of energy), flu-like symptoms, delusions, weight loss, back pain, trembling, a hoarse voice, and malaise (uneasiness or discomfort).
Gabapentin is manufactured by Pfizer subsidiary, Parke-Davis under the brand name Neurontin. It is available through prescription in 100 mg, 300 mg and 400 mg hard shell capsules, 600 mg and 800 mg film-coated tablets, and a 250 mg/5 ml oral solution.
It can either be administered orally, intravenously, or via the Prometa Treatment Protocol which is used as a treatment for alcohol, cocaine and methamphetamine abuse.
While Gabapentin does control some seizures, patients should take note that it is not a cure for epilepsy, and will only be effective as long as the patient continues to take the medication.
Gabapentin has the following structural formula:
• Molecular formula of gabapentin is C9H17NO2
• Chemical IUPAC Name is 2-[1-(aminomethyl)cyclohexyl]acetic acid
• Molecular weight is 171.237 g/mol
• Gabapentin available : 100mg capsules, 300mg capsules, 400mg capsules, 600mg tablets, 800mg tablets
Brand name(s): Aclonium, Gababentin, Gabapentine, Gabapentino, Gabapentinum, Gabapetin, Neurontin, Novo-Gabapentin
Review published on: 11 May 2008
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