By: Jacqueline Long, Teresa Wood, Bridget Tilton & Michelle Ambriati

Neurontin(gabapentin )

Approved Uses:

• treating certain types of

seizures associated with

epilepsy

• treating nerve pain

associated with herpes

zoster (shingles),

neuropathy

• alcohol/cocaine withdrawl• hiccups

• Restless Leg Syndrome

• Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)

• hotflashes

• Fibromyaligia

Nonapproved uses  AKA "off label uses"

• Diabetes

• Shingles

• Chemotherapy

•  Herniated disk

Causes of neuropathy:

Herniation                                         Shingles

Nerve PainAfter injury occurs in the body NERVES

pick up the injury and send the message

to the BRAIN via the SPINAL CORD

Gabapentin increases the amount of 

gamma- aminobutyric acid ("GABA") in

the brain. (GABA is an inhibitory

neurotransmitter, which can exert

tranquilizing effects on the brain.)

* Simply put: the medicine helps to quiet

the burning/stabbing/shooting pain that

is caused by nerve damage.

How does it work for seizures ?

Epileptic seizures occur when there are low levels

of GABA in the brain. Therefore, gabapentin reduces the number of seizures a person will

have if taken consistently by providing GABA

Epileptic seizures - abnormal excessive neuronal activity in the brainGABA in the brain helps to synchronize neuronal firing

• Take by mouth with or without food

• Do not suddenly stop taking the medication. If you are taking it to prevent seizures, stopping it abruptly may put you at an increased risk for seizures. If you plan to stop the medicine for any reason, call and discuss this with your doctor first

• If you miss a dose of medicine, take it as soon as possible; do not take 2 doses together   

How to use this medication:

Potential Interactions:• Do not take with alcohol,

risk for tranquilizing effects

is increased

• Do not take an antacid

containing aluminum or

magnesium within 2 hours

before you take the

medicine

• Morphine will also increase

the medicines side effects,

including drowsiness

• clumsiness

• constipation

• diarrhea

• dizziness

• drowsiness

• dry mouth

• nausea

• stomach upset

• tiredness

• vomiting

• weight gain

Possible Side Effects:

• severe allergic reactions (rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing)

• abnormal thoughts

• back and forth eye movements/vision changes

• behavioral problems/change in school performance

• irregular heartbeat

• fever,chills, sore throat

• memory loss

• depression, aggitation, anxiety

• suicidal thoughts

• new or worsening seizures

• numbness of arm/leg

• one sided weakness                                 

* Call your doctor if you experience:

Do the benefits outweigh the risks?

symptoms of overdose include: diarrhea, double vision,drowsiness, sluggishness, slurred speech.

   If overdose is suspected call

1800 222 1222 Poison Control Center

 or 911  immediately

Remember to call your doctor with any questions regarding your medication

www.mayoclinic.com/health/drug-information

www.learn.genetics.utah.edu/content/addiction/reward/pathways.html

Reference