Medication: | Gabapentin (brand name: Neurontin) |
Available Dosages: | 800 mg, 600 mg, 400 mg, 300 mg, 100 mg |
Gabapentin Price: | 600 mg x 120 tablet – $269.95 ($2.25 per tablet) |
How to Get | Start now |
Gabapentin (Neurontin)
Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant drug that works by modulating the activity of voltage-dependent calcium channels in neurons. It is believed to work by blocking certain types of calcium channels in the brain, which helps to reduce nerve impulses that cause seizures and pain. Additionally, gabapentin has been shown to interfere with the release of neurotransmitters such as glutamate, norepinephrine, and substance P from sensory neurons.
The drug also appears to block NMDA receptors, which are involved in pain transmission. By preventing calcium from entering through these receptors, gabapentin effectively blocks nerve signals that can lead to hyperexcitability or over-excitement of nerves, thus reducing seizure activity or pain signaling.
Furthermore, it has been reported that gabapentin may reduce inflammation and improve endothelial function by inhibiting the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF alpha and IL-1 beta. As a result, gabapentin may help prevent damage caused by oxidative stress to cells in the body including those located in the nervous system.
Thus, this medication appears to provide relief from both seizures and chronic pain conditions by controlling neuron firing rates as well as interfering with the release of neurotransmitters responsible for excessive excitation states in neurons.
When Gabapentin is indicated
Gabapentin is indicated for a wide range of medical conditions, including epilepsy, neuropathic pain, restless legs syndrome, and hot flashes. It has also been used to treat depression and anxiety as well as migraine headaches. In terms of its anti-seizure effects, gabapentin has been found to be effective in treating partial seizures and generalized tonic-clonic seizures.
Additionally, this drug has shown promise in the treatment of post-stroke pain and spasticity caused by spinal cord injury or multiple sclerosis. Gabapentin is often prescribed together with other medications such as antiepileptic drugs or antidepressants to enhance their effectiveness in relieving symptoms of various neurological illnesses.
Gabapentin (Neurontin) can also be used for off-label purposes such as treating bipolar disorder, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, alcoholism, and opiate withdrawal. Furthermore, research suggests that gabapentin may help reduce alcohol cravings and improve sleep quality in people suffering from insomnia. Finally, gabapentin may prove useful in managing diabetic neuropathy by helping decrease nerve pain associated with type 2 diabetes.
Gabapentin dosage
Taking gabapentin is relatively simple. The usual dose is 300–900 mg per day, taken in divided doses of three or four times a day. Depending on the condition being treated and the severity of symptoms, the dose may be increased gradually up to a maximum of 3,600 mg per day for adults. It is important to take gabapentin exactly as prescribed by your health care provider; dosage adjustments should not be made without consulting with a doctor first.
Taking higher doses than recommended can increase the risk of side effects. Additionally, it is important to take the medication regularly and at the same time each day in order to maintain an even level in the bloodstream.
Gabapentin tablets should be swallowed whole with plenty of water and should not be crushed, chewed, or broken apart before taking them. If you miss a dose, do not double up on your next dose; instead, simply resume your normal schedule when it’s time for your next dose.
It’s also important to note that gabapentin should be taken with food or milk and should never be taken with alcohol as this could cause serious side effects such as drowsiness and difficulty breathing.
Furthermore, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding seek medical advice before taking this medication as there may be risks associated with taking it during these periods of life. Lastly, always consult with your doctor before starting any new medications while taking gabapentin since they may interact negatively with each other and cause dangerous side effects.
Side effects of Gabapentin
Gabapentin is generally well tolerated, but as with all medications, it can cause certain side effects in some individuals. The most common side effects of taking gabapentin include dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, headache, and blurred vision. Other reported side effects include:
- ataxia, decreased coordination and balance issues;
- memory problems and difficulty concentrating;
- tremor or shaking;
- fever;
- diarrhea and constipation;
- rash or other skin reactions;
- agitation or anxiousness;
- dry mouth and increased thirst;
- changes in appetite or weight gain or loss;
- changes in blood pressure levels;
- depression and mood swings;
- night sweats and hot flashes.
In rare cases, people may also experience swelling of the face or neck area which can be severe enough to cause breathing difficulties.
In addition to these potential side effects, there is some evidence that gabapentin may have more serious risks associated with its long-term use. For instance, studies have suggested that this medication may increase the risk of suicide in certain individuals who are taking it for certain conditions such as epilepsy.
Additionally, regular use of higher doses of gabapentin over an extended period of time may lead to kidney damage as well as a reduction in white blood cell counts which could make an individual more susceptible to infections. Finally, as mentioned previously, mixing gabapentin with alcohol can worsen its side effects and should therefore be avoided at all costs.
Overall, all medications come with the potential for both short-term and long-term side effects—and gabapentin is no different. It’s important that those taking this drug understand the risks involved so they can be aware of any changes they might experience while on it.
If you are considering taking gabapentin for any medical condition be sure to discuss these potential side effects with your doctor before starting treatment so you can make an informed decision about whether this drug is right for you.