Gabapentin (By mouth)
Gabapentin (gab-a-PEN-tin)
Treats seizures and pain caused by shingles.
Brand Name(s):
ACTIVE-PAC with Gabapentin, Convenience Pak, Cyclo/Gaba 10/300 Pack, FusePaq Fanatrex, Gaba-V, Gralise, Neurontin, SmartRx Gaba Kit
There may be other brand names for this medicine.When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:
This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to gabapentin.How to Use This Medicine:
Capsule, Liquid, Tablet
- Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you. If you have epilepsy , do not allow more than 12 hours to pass between doses.
- Capsule: Swallow the capsule whole with plenty of water. Do not open, crush, or chew it.
- Gralise® tablet: Swallow the tablet whole . Do not crush, break, or chew it.
- Neurontin® tablet: If you break a tablet into 2 pieces, use the second half as your next dose. If you don't use it within 28 days, throw it away.
- Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.
- This medicine should come with a Medication Guide. Ask your pharmacist for a copy if you do not have one.
- Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
- Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Store the Neurontin® oral liquid in the refrigerator. Do not freeze.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid:
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
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Some medicines can affect how gabapentin works. Tell your doctor if you also use any of the following:
- Hydrocodone
- Morphine
- If you take an antacid, wait at least 2 hours before you take gabapentin.
- Tell your doctor if you use anything else that makes you sleepy. Some examples are allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, and alcohol.
Warnings While Using This Medicine:
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney problems or are receiving dialysis. Tell your doctor if you have a history of depression or mental health problems.
- This medicine may increase depression or thoughts of suicide. Tell your doctor right away if you start to feel more depressed or think about hurting yourself.
- This medicine may cause a serious allergic reaction called multiorgan hypersensitivity, which can damage organs and be life-threatening.
- Do not stop using this medicine suddenly. Your doctor will need to slowly decrease your dose before you stop it completely. If you take this medicine to prevent seizures, your seizures may return or occur more often if you stop this medicine suddenly.
- This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how this medicine affects you.
- Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect certain medical test results.
- Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.
- Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
- Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
- Behavior problems, aggression, restlessness, trouble concentrating, moodiness (especially in children)
- Blistering, peeling, red skin rash
- Change in how much or how often you urinate, bloody or cloudy urine,
- Chest pain, fast heartbeat, trouble breathing
- Dark urine or pale stools, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, yellow skin or eyes
- Fever, rash, swollen or tender glands in the neck, armpit, or groin
- Problems with coordination, shakiness, unsteadiness
- Rapid weight gain, swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet
- Unusual moods or behaviors, thoughts of hurting yourself, feeling depressed
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
- Dizziness, drowsiness, sleepiness, tiredness
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088
Last Updated: 1/27/2017