Gabapentin is the generic name of Neurontin. It is primarily used to treat epilepsy. Neurontin belongs to be anti convulsive as well as anti epileptic drug classification. It can be use as a mono therapy or in combination with other drugs for synergistic effect. It works on the central nervous system which is primarily responsible for the epileptic activity in the body.
Neurontin is the most effective drug to treat the epileptic and convulsive attacks. Neurontin comes in various forms like tablet, capsule, and oral solution. The strengths of Neurontin vary depending on the severity of the overall condition of the patient. The active component of Neurontin Gabapentin is an off white solid substance. Neurontin is indicated for patient 12 years of age and above. The use of Neurontin for a patient below 12 years of age is determined by the health care provider. The drug is taken via oral route in a full or empty stomach. Neurontin is primarily used for treating epilepsy and postherpetic neuralgia. neurontin contains in 100 mg, 300 mg, and 400 mg capsules. The tablet form of Neurontin comes in 600 mg and 800 mg. Oral solutions have 250mg/5ml strength.
Precautionary Measures: Neurontin is carefully given to a patient due to its unusual side effects. The patient and family should be counseled on the side effects of Neurontin. Anti convulsive medications like Neurontin may cause suicidal ideation. Hence, it is very important to observe the patient for any signs of a suicidal attempt. Patient who is undergoing Neurontin therapy is highly discouraged to drive and operative heavy equipments as the ability to concentrate is affected during the length of the therapy. Pregnant women should be cautious in taking the drugs too. There is also withdrawal syndrome observed to a patient undergoing Neurontin treatment. The safety of Neurontin on lactating mothers has not yet established. Hence, it is better to stop breastfeeding on the duration of the therapy. The use of Neurontin for a pediatric patient is predetermined by a health care provider. It can only be given if the health benefits out stands the health risks. It is also given with extra caution to older patients specially 65 years of age and above. Studies have shown that those pregnant mothers who have been exposed to Neurontin have high incidence of fetal mortality and fetal defects. Patients with severe renal and hepatic dysfunction are extra careful on taking Neurontin.
Neurontin Side Effects: Side effects are very common to any type of medication. The commonly reported side effects of Neurontin are
- headache,
- fever,
- diarrhea,
- constipation,
- nausea with or without vomiting,
- drying of the mouth,
- weight gain as evidenced by edema,
- hypersensitivity to pain,
- inability to maintain balance,
- somnolence,
- increase in the level of glucose in the blood,
- appearance of rash,
- difficulty swallowing,
- and double vision..
Consult a health professional right away for any signs of severe side effects like suicidal behaviors, increased allergic reaction, palpitations, and chest tightness
Contraindication: Neurontin is not to be given to a patient with reported hypersensitivity reaction to gabapentin and any of the expedients of neurontin.
Storage: Keep Neurontin in a dry and safe place. Keep it away from direct rays of the sun and moisture. The recommended storage temperature for capsule and tablet form is 15 degree Celsius to 30 degree Celsius. The ideal storage temperature for oral solution is 2 degree Celsius to 8 degree Celsius, ideally in the fridge.