Neurontin is used in adults to treat certain types of seizures in
the treatment of epilepsy.
It
is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist
for more information.
How
should Neurontin be used?
Neurontin comes as a capsule to take by mouth. It is taken three
times a day. To minimize side effects, take the very first dose
at bedtime.Then take this medication at evenly spaced times throughout
the day and night to ensure a constant level of Neurontin in your
body.Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully,
and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not
understand. Take Gabapentin exactly as directed. Do not take more
or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Continue
to take Gabapentin even if you feel well. Do not stop taking Neurontin
without talking to your doctor, especially if you have taken large
doses for a long time. Abruptly stopping the drug can cause seizures.
Your doctor probably will decrease your dose gradually. Gabapentin
must be taken regularly for a few weeks before its full effect is
felt. Neurontin : Full
Prescribing Information
tell
your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to Neurontin or any
other drugs.
tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription
medications you are taking, especially antacids such as Mylanta
or Maalox, cimetidine (Tagamet), oral contraceptives, and vitamins.
tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney disease.
tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or
are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking Neurontin,
call your doctor.
if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor
or dentist that you are taking Neurontin.
you should know that Gabapentin may make you drowsy. Do not drive
a car or operate machinery until you know how Gabapentin affects
you.
remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by Gabapentin.
What should I do if I forget a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it
is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue
your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make
up for a missed one.
What
side effects can Neurontin cause?
Although side effects from Neurontin are not common, they can occur.
Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go
away:
drowsiness
headache
fatigue
blurred vision
tremor
anxiety
irregular eye movements
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor
immediately:
skin
rash
itching
difficulty moving or breathing
clumsiness
fever
flu-like symptoms
irregular, pounding, or fast heartbeat
seizures
What storage conditions are needed for Neurontin?
Keep Gabapentin in the container it came in, tightly closed, and
out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature, away from
excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication
that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about
the proper disposal of your medication. What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist
any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
