Neurontin

Neurontin Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Neurontin is a brand name. Its generic name is Gabapentin.

Introduction

Neurontin is a white to off-white crystalline solid with a pK a1 of 3.7 and a pK a2 of 11. It's structural formula is: C9H17NO2•HCl

Uses For

Neurontin is used to treat partial seizures, post-herpetic neuralgia, and neuropathic pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

Mechanism of Action

Neurontin binds to calcium channels located in the central nervous system. This action results in a reduction of the release of several neurotransmitters, including glutamate, substance P, and calcitonin gene-related peptide, which are important for controlling seizures and pain perception.

How Long Does It Take to Work?

The effects of gabapentin can begin to occur within a few hours of first taking the medication. In some cases, it may take up to two weeks for the full effects to be felt.

Absorption

Neurontin is rapidly absorbed after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations occurring within 1.5-2 hours.

Route of Elimination

Neurontin is primarily eliminated via renal excretion and is eliminated in urine as unchanged drug.

Dosage

The recommended starting dosage of gabapentin is:

• For partial seizures in adults and adolescents aged 12 and older: 300mg orally three times a day for the first week; the dosage can then be increased up to a maximum of 2400mg/day.
• For post-herpetic neuralgia in adults and adolescents aged 12 and older: the starting dosage is 300mg orally, three times a day; the dosage can then be increased up to a maximum of 2400mg/day.
• For neuropathic pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy in adults and adolescents aged 12 and older: the starting dosage is 300mg orally, followed by an escalation to 1800mg/day.

Administration

Neurontin should be taken orally with or without food as prescribed by your doctor.

Side Effect

Common side effects of gabapentin include fatigue, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, nausea, blurred vision, dry mouth or changes in taste, constipation, nervousness, unsteadiness, insomnia, and weight gain.

Toxicity

Neurontin is generally safe and well tolerated, however excessive doses may lead to acute toxicity. Symptoms of toxicity include confusion, disorientation, irregular heart rate, low blood pressure, and respiratory depression.

Precautions

Before taking gabapentin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Interaction

Neurontin may interact with other drugs and supplements. It is important to tell your doctor or pharmacist about all drugs and supplements you are taking, as they could affect how gabapentin works. These drugs include, but are not limited to: antacids, opioids, certain antibiotics, antifungals, anticonvulsants, MAO inhibitors, narcotics, or certain calcium channel blockers.

Disease Interaction

Using gabapentin in combination with other drugs that affect central nervous system activity may increase the risk of serious side effects. These drugs include, but are not limited to: cold or allergy medicines, narcotic pain medicines, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, and medicines for seizures, depression, or anxiety.

Drug Interaction

Drug interactions may affect how gabapentin works in your body, and could increase your risk of serious side effects. These interactions include, but are not limited to: certain antibiotics, antifungals, anticonvulsants, MAO inhibitors, narcotics, or certain calcium channel blockers. Be sure to tell your doctor or pharmacist about all drugs and supplements you are taking.

Food Interactions

Eating certain foods can increase the absorption of gabapentin, thus increasing the level of the drug in your body, which in turn can increase the risk of serious side effects. Therefore, it is important to avoid foods high in fat or cholesterol when taking this medication.

Pregnancy Use

Neurontin should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefit outweighs the risk. If you become pregnant while taking gabapentin, it is important to talk to your doctor about the potential risks.

Lactation Use

It is not known if gabapentin is excreted into human milk. Because of this, it is recommended that if you are breastfeeding, you should not use gabapentin.

Acute Overdose

Symptoms of an acute overdose may include confusion, disorientation, irregular heart rate, low blood pressure, and respiratory depression.

Contraindication

Neurontin is contraindicated in patients who have known hypersensitivity to the drug. It should also be avoided in patients with a history of renal insufficiency, as gabapentin is primarily eliminated via renal excretion.

Use Direction

Take gabapentin exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more or less than what is recommended. Taking too much gabapentin can cause serious side effects. If you are taking any other medications or supplements, talk to your doctor before using gabapentin.

Storage Condition

Neurontin should be stored in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight at room temperature. Keep it in a tightly closed container.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution is 0.85-1.9 L/kg.

Half Life

The half life of gabapentin is 5-7 hours.

Clearance

The clearance of gabapentin is 210-310 ml/min.

Here you find in details version of Neurontin

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Neurontin

What is Neurontin?

Neurontin is an anti-epileptic medication, also called an anticonvulsant. It is used to treat certain types of seizures and is also used to treat nerve pain associated with various conditions, such as postherpetic neuralgia.

What is Neurontin used for?

Neurontin is used to control partial seizures in adults with epilepsy. It is also used to treat certain types of nerve pain and to treat restless legs syndrome.

How long does it take for Neurontin to work?

The effects of Neurontin may be seen within 2-3 days. As with any medication, individual response will vary.

How fast does Neurontin work?

The effects of Neurontin usually occur quite rapidly, but as with any medication, individual response will vary.

What are the side effects of Neurontin?

The most common side effects of Neurontin are drowsiness, dizziness, and headache. Other side effects may include swelling, confusion, depression, and difficulty breathing.

Can Neurontin cause anxiety?

Yes, Neurontin can cause anxiety. If you are experiencing anxiety after taking Neurontin, it is important to talk to your doctor about the possibility of side effects.

Can you take Neurontin with alcohol?

It is not recommended to take Neurontin with alcohol. Combining Neurontin with alcohol may increase the risk of side effects such as drowsiness. It is best to avoid drinking alcohol while taking Neurontin.

Can you take Neurontin with other medications?

Yes, Neurontin can be taken with other medications. However, it is important to tell your doctor about all the medications, supplements, and vitamins you are taking to avoid possible interactions. Always check with your doctor before taking Neurontin with other medications.

Is Neurontin a narcotic?

No, Neurontin is not a narcotic. It is an anti-epileptic medication, also called an anticonvulsant.

How long does Neurontin stay in your system?

Neurontin can stay in your system for up to 72 hours after your last dose. However, this time frame can vary depending on several factors, including your age, kidney function, and metabolism.

Is Neurontin an opioid?

No, Neurontin is not an opioid. It is an anti-epileptic medication, also called an anticonvulsant.

Can I take Neurontin while pregnant?

It is not recommended to take Neurontin while pregnant. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking Neurontin during pregnancy.

Can I take Neurontin while breastfeeding?

It is not recommended to take Neurontin while breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking Neurontin while breastfeeding.

Can Neurontin help with nerve pain?

Yes, Neurontin can be used to treat nerve pain. It is commonly used to treat postherpetic neuralgia, a common complication of shingles.

Does Neurontin cause weight gain?

Yes, weight gain is a possible side effect of Neurontin. If you are experiencing weight gain while taking Neurontin, it is important to talk to your doctor about the possibility of adjusting the dosage.

Can you overdose on Neurontin?

Yes, it is possible to overdose on Neurontin. Taking too much Neurontin can cause symptoms such as confusion, drowsiness, and slowed breathing. If you think you have overdosed on Neurontin, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

Is Neurontin effective for treating seizures?

Yes, Neurontin is effective for treating certain types of seizures. It is used to control partial seizures in adults with epilepsy.

What are the long-term effects of Neurontin?

The long-term effects of Neurontin are largely unknown. Common side effects may include increased fatigue, changes in behavior, and dizziness. Rare side effects may include severe allergic reactions and serotonin syndrome.

Can Neurontin cause hair loss?

Yes, hair loss is a possible side effect of Neurontin. If you are experiencing hair loss while taking Neurontin, it is important to talk to your doctor about the possibility of adjusting the dosage.

Can I take ibuprofen with Neurontin?

Yes, ibuprofen can be taken with Neurontin. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking any medications together.

Does Neurontin cause hallucinations?

Yes, hallucinations are a possible side effect of Neurontin. If you experience hallucinations after taking Neurontin, it is important to talk to your doctor about the possibility of adjusting the dosage.

Does Neurontin affect blood pressure?

Yes, Neurontin may affect blood pressure. Taking Neurontin may increase the risk of low blood pressure, which can cause dizziness and light-headedness.

Can I take Tylenol with Neurontin?

Yes, Tylenol can be taken with Neurontin. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking any medications together.

Is Neurontin habit forming?

No, Neurontin is not a habit forming medication. However, if you feel like you need to take higher doses then you should talk to your doctor about the possibility of adjusting the dosage.

Does Neurontin help with anxiety?

Yes, Neurontin can help with anxiety. It is used to treat certain types of anxiety disorders. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before starting Neurontin to treat anxiety.

Does Neurontin help with sleep?

Yes, Neurontin can help with sleep. It is used to treat certain types of sleep disorders, such as insomnia and restless legs syndrome.

Can I take Neurontin with Xanax?

Yes, Neurontin can be taken with Xanax. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking any medications together.

Can I take Neurontin with Wellbutrin?

Yes, Neurontin can be taken with Wellbutrin. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking any medications together.

Can I take Neurontin with Prozac?

Yes, Neurontin can be taken with Prozac. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking any medications together.

Can Neurontin cause liver damage?

Yes, liver damage is a possible side effect of Neurontin. If you experience any signs or symptoms of liver damage after taking Neurontin, it is important to talk to your doctor about the possibility of adjusting the dosage.

Does Neurontin help with nerve pain?

Yes, Neurontin can help with nerve pain. It is commonly used to treat postherpetic neuralgia, a common complication of shingles.

Does Neurontin cause constipation?

Yes, constipation is a possible side effect of Neurontin. If you experience constipation while taking Neurontin, it is important to talk to your doctor about the possibility of adjusting the dosage.

Can Neurontin cause dizziness?

Yes, dizziness is a possible side effect of Neurontin. If you experience dizziness after taking Neurontin, it is important to talk to your doctor about the possibility of adjusting the dosage.

Is Neurontin an anti-inflammatory?

No, Neurontin is not an anti-inflammatory. It is an anti-epileptic medication, also called an anticonvulsant.

Can I take Neurontin with Ativan?

Yes, Neurontin can be taken with Ativan. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking any medications together.

Can I take Neurontin with Flexeril?

Yes, Neurontin can be taken with Flexeril. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking any medications together.

Can I take Neurontin with Tramadol?

Yes, Neurontin can be taken with Tramadol. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking any medications together.

Does Neurontin help with depression?

Yes, Neurontin can help with depression. It is used to treat certain types of depression and has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of depression.

Does Neurontin help with withdrawal symptoms?

Yes, Neurontin can help with withdrawal symptoms. It is commonly used to treat drug and alcohol withdrawal, as well as nicotine withdrawal.

Can I take Neurontin with Ambien?

Yes, Neurontin can be taken with Ambien. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking any medications together.

Can I take Neurontin with Zoloft?

Yes, Neurontin can be taken with Zoloft. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking any medications together.

What is the maximum dosage of Neurontin?

The maximum dosage of Neurontin is 1800 mg per day. However, it is important to talk to your doctor to determine the best dosage for you.