Uses
Gabapentin is
used with other medications to prevent and control seizures. It
is also used to relieve nerve pain following shingles (a
painful rash due to herpes zoster infection) in adults.
Gabapentin is known as an anticonvulsant or antiepileptic drug.
Side Effects
Drowsiness, dizziness,
loss of coordination, tiredness, blurred/double vision, unusual eye movements,
or shaking (tremor) may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell
your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember
that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has
judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many
people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell
your doctor right away if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur:
swelling of the hands/ankles/feet.
A
small number of people who take anticonvulsants for any condition (such
as seizures, bipolar disorder, pain) may experience depression, suicidal
thoughts/attempts, or other mental/mood problems. Tell your doctor right away
if you or your family/caregiver notice any unusual/sudden changes in your mood,
thoughts, or behavior including signs of depression, suicidal
thoughts/attempts, thoughts about harming yourself.
Get
medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including:
slow/shallow breathing.
A
very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get
medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic
reaction, including: fever, swollen lymph nodes, rash, itching/swelling
(especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble
breathing.
This
is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects
not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
Before
taking gabapentin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are
allergic to it; or to gabapentin enacarbil; or if you have any other allergies.
This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic
reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before
using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical
history, especially of: kidney disease, mental/mood problems (such
as depression, thoughts of suicide), use/abuse of
drugs/alcohol, breathing problems (such as COPD).
This
drug may make you dizzy or drowsy or blur your vision. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis)
can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything
that needs alertness or clear vision until you can do it safely.
Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using
marijuana (cannabis).
Before
having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products
you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal
products).
Older
adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially
swelling of the hands/ankles/feet, slow/shallow breathing, dizziness, or
loss of coordination. Dizziness and loss of coordination can increase the risk
of falling.
Children
may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially
mental/mood/behavior changes (such as hostility, problems concentrating,
restlessness).
During pregnancy,
this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and
benefits with your doctor.
Gabapentin
passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.