Proper Use of Gabapentin

Proper use of gabapentin involves adhering to the prescribed dosing schedule, monitoring for side effects, and understanding how to manage potential interactions.

This medicine comes with a Medication Guide. Read and follow the instructions carefully. Ask your doctor if you have any questions.

If you are using Gralise® tablets:

• These should be taken with the evening meal.
• Swallow the tablet whole. Do not crush, break, or chew it.

For patients with epilepsy who take gabapentin three times per day, do not allow more than 12 hours to pass between any 2 doses. The medicine works best if a constant amount is in the blood.

Neurontin® capsules, tablets, and solution may be taken with or without food.

You may break the scored Neurontin® tablets into two pieces, but make sure you use the second half of the tablet as the next dose. Do not use the half-tablet if the whole tablet has been cut or broken after 28 days. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

Swallow the capsule whole with plenty of water. Do not open, crush, or chew it.

Measure the oral liquid using a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup. The average household teaspoon may not hold the right amount of liquid.

If you take an antacid that contains aluminum or magnesium, wait at least 2 hours before taking gabapentin. Some examples of these antacids are Di-Gel®, Gaviscon®, Gelusil®, Maalox® and Mylanta®.

Here’s a guide on how to properly use gabapentin:

1. Take Gabapentin Exactly as Prescribed

• Follow the dosage: Your doctor will prescribe a specific dose based on your condition, response to treatment, and any other medical factors. It’s important not to change your dose without consulting your doctor.
• Gradual increase: Gabapentin is often started at a low dose and gradually increased to reduce the risk of side effects such as drowsiness or dizziness.
• Do not skip doses: Take gabapentin at regular intervals to maintain consistent levels in your bloodstream. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for your next dose. Never double up on doses.

2. How to Take It

• Oral administration: Gabapentin is available in capsules, tablets, and an oral solution. Swallow the capsule or tablet whole with water. If you’re using the oral solution, use a proper measuring device to ensure accuracy.
• With or without food: Gabapentin can be taken with or without food. If you experience nausea, you may want to take it with food to reduce stomach upset.
• Avoid antacids: Do not take gabapentin within 2 hours of taking antacids containing magnesium or aluminum, as these can reduce its absorption.

3. Monitor Side Effects

• Drowsiness and dizziness: Gabapentin can cause drowsiness, especially when you first start taking it. Avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you know how it affects you.
• Weight gain: Some people may gain weight on gabapentin, so it’s a good idea to monitor your diet and physical activity.
• Changes in mood or behavior: If you notice mood swings, depression, or suicidal thoughts, contact your doctor immediately.

4. Don’t Stop Abruptly

• Tapering is important: If you need to stop taking gabapentin, your doctor will gradually reduce the dose to avoid withdrawal symptoms, especially if you’ve been on it for a long time. Abrupt discontinuation can lead to withdrawal effects or seizures.
• Duration of treatment: Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding how long to take gabapentin. It may be prescribed for long-term use in certain conditions, such as neuropathic pain or seizures.

5. Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications

• Limit alcohol consumption: Alcohol can increase the sedative effects of gabapentin, leading to excessive drowsiness, dizziness, or even respiratory depression. It’s best to avoid or limit alcohol while taking this medication.
• Check for drug interactions: Let your doctor know about any other medications, vitamins, or supplements you are taking. Gabapentin can interact with opioids, benzodiazepines, and antacids, among others.

6. Storage

• Store at room temperature: Gabapentin should be kept at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Proper disposal: If you no longer need gabapentin, ask your pharmacist how to dispose of it properly. Do not flush medications down the toilet unless instructed.

7. When to Contact Your Doctor

• Severe side effects: If you experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, severe dizziness, or rash, seek medical help immediately. These could be signs of an allergic reaction.
• Mood changes: Report any changes in mood, depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts to your healthcare provider.
• Ineffectiveness: If you feel gabapentin isn’t working for your condition, don’t adjust the dose on your own. Contact your doctor for guidance.

8. Special Considerations for Certain Populations

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor. Gabapentin can pass into breast milk and may affect a developing fetus.
• Elderly patients: Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of gabapentin, such as drowsiness, dizziness, and coordination problems, which could increase the risk of falls.

Summary of Proper Use:

• Take gabapentin exactly as prescribed, at regular intervals.
• Avoid antacids close to taking your dose.
• Do not stop abruptly; taper off under medical supervision.
• Be cautious with alcohol and medications that may interact.
• Monitor for side effects, particularly mood changes and allergic reactions.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that gabapentin is used safely and effectively for your condition.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Storage

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

You should store the Neurontin® oral liquid in the refrigerator. Do not freeze.