Neurontin facts and uses

Neurontin (gabapentin) is the analog of GABA (gamma amino-butyricacid). This drug increases the amount of GABA available for the body and causesrelaxation, anti-anxiety and anti-convulsive properties. Because of that,neurontin is used to treat epilepsy (seizures) and to relieve some types ofpain. It has proven to be especially useful in treating neuropathic pain.

This medication can be used to treat epileptic seizures inadults and children older than 12 years. Also, Neurontin can be part of thetherapy for partial seizures in young children (3 to 12 years old).

Caution

Do not take this medication if you know that you areallergic to gabapentin.

Patients with liver, kidney and heart problems should bevery careful when using Neurontin. Consult your doctor, because you might needto adjust the dose in order to use the medication safely.

This medication is the C category of the FDA pregnancy list.It means that it is not known if the drug cause any harm to an unborn child. Ifyou are pregnant or plan to become pregnant always consult your doctor beforestarting the Neurontin therapy.

Neurontin can be transferred through the breast milk to yourchild, so if you are breastfeeding consult your doctor about using this drug.

Adverse Effects

Some people might be allergic togabapentin (neurontin). Swelling of your lips, tongue or throat, breathing problemsor hives are the sings of allergic reaction and you should call for somemedical attention right away.

There are other side effects alsoconsidered to be serious, such as: easy bruising, tremor, rapid eye movement,swelling of the ankles or feet, flu-like symptoms or increased seizures. Any ofthese symptoms require urgent medical help.

Certain adverse effects are notso dangerous. This include: headaches, dizziness, drowsiness, coordination, andvision difficulties or sleeping problems. Some patients might experiencenausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dry mouth, loss of appetite, skin problems orsore throat.

There is a potential danger thatthis drug can affect your vision or reaction, and because of that be extremelycareful while driving or managing some machinery.

Warning

Use Neurontin exactly as it wasprescribed. Never take more than the prescribed dose and take the medication regularly.

Do not stop the medicationsuddenly, because it may cause increased seizures. Never stop using Neurontinbefore consulting your doctor.

Overdose may cause weakness,slurred speech, blurred vision, and even diarrhea or drowsiness. If you happento experience any of these symptoms, call for urgent medical assistance.

This medication might provokesuicidal thoughts in patients using it. Always wear a bracelet or an ID cardwith the clearly marked notion that you are using Neurontin. Inform your familyand friends you are using this medication. Watch closely for the mood changes, anxiety,depression, hyperactivity and suicidal thoughts. Any of these symptoms shouldbe reported to your doctor, either by you or the people around you. Your doctorwill schedule regular appointments because of this potential danger and you shouldn’tmiss it.