Uses of Gabapentin

Gabapentin is used in the treatment of epilepsy and peripheral neuropathic pain (long lasting pain caused by damage to nerves).  

Therapeutic Category

Gabapentin: Anticonvulsants

How Gabapentin works

Gabapentin works effectively by altering the electrical activity in the brain by inhibiting the voltage-gated calcium channels and decreasing the release of excitatory neurotransmitters, thus preventing fits or seizures. Gabapentin also blocks the pain signals travelling through the damaged nerves and the brain and prevents nerve pain. 

Common side effects of Gabapentin

• fever, chills, runny nose, cough
• drowsiness, dizziness, lack of coordination
• tiredness, fever
• pneumonia
• signs of upper respiratory tract infection (sore throat, inflamed sinuses, common cold)
• signs of urinary tract infection (bladder pain, foul smell, cloudy urine, frequent urination)
• inflammation of the ear or other infections
• eating disorder characterized by low body weight, increased appetite
• anger towards others, confusion, mood changes, depression, anxiety, nervousness, difficulty with thinking
• jerky movements, difficulty with speaking, loss of memory, tremor, difficulty sleeping, headache, sensitive skin, decreased sensation (numbness), difficulty with coordination, unusual eye movement, increased, decreased or absent reflexes
• blurred or double vision
• high blood pressure, flushing
• difficulty in breathing, bronchitis
• vomiting, nausea
• problems with teeth, inflamed gums
• diarrhea, stomach pain, indigestion, constipation, flatulence
• joint pain, back pain, twitching
• difficulties with erection (males)
• swelling in the legs and arms, difficulty with walking, weakness, pain
• accidental injury, fracture, abrasion

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor:

• In case of accidental overdosage
• If you experience severe skin reactions such as skin rash, hives, redness, fever, swelling of the face, lips, and tongue, and/ or hair loss
• If you experience symptoms of acute pancreatitis such as persistent stomach pain, nausea and vomiting
• If you experience severe breathing problems
• If you experience swollen glands that do not go away
• If you experience yellowing of your skin or of the whites of the eyes
• If you experience unusual bruising or bleeding
• If you experience severe weakness
• If you experience unexplained muscle pain
• If you experience frequent infections

Health Tips for Gabapentin

• Avoid alcohol consumption while taking Gabapentin as it increases the risk of drowsiness and impairs your coordination and judgement