Warnings & Recalls for Gabapentin
Gabapentin and Suicidal Thoughts
There has been evidence suggesting that
seizure medications, including gabapentin, can increase the risk of
suicidal thoughts or
behaviors. If you or someone you know is taking gabapentin and experiences any unusual changes in behavior such as irritation, depression, sudden aggression, or any suicidal behaviors, contact your doctor immediately.
Gabapentin and Pregnancy
Gabapentin is classified as a
pregnancy Category C medication, meaning it might
not be
safe for
women who are
pregnant, however, the risks are
unknown. Speak to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking the drug
during pregnancy. Gabapentin passes through
breast milk. Therefore, if you are
breastfeeding or plan to start, talk to your doctor before you start taking the drug.
Gabapentin Warnings
The abrupt discontinuation of Gabapentin is dangerous, and can lead to an increase in seizures. Do not stop taking the medication while you are prescribed, unless you are instructed to do so by your health-care provider.
Make sure that you know how gabapentin affects you before driving or operating machinery, as it can cause
drowsiness and
dizziness. In general, you should
avoid alcohol while taking gabapentin, due to the risk of
increasing drowsiness.
Gabapentin was shown to increase the risk of certain types of
cancer in
rats. It is not known if gabapentin may cause the same risk of
cancer in
humans.
Before you begin taking Gabapentin, talk to your health-care provider about whether or not you:
- Are allergic to Gabapentin or any inactive ingredients
- Have liver disease
- Have kidney disease
- Are depressed
- Are pregnant, or breastfeeding
What Drugs interact with Gabapentin?
Tell your doctor about other drugs you are on before taking Gabapentin. Gabapentin has been known to interact with the following drugs:
- Hydrocodone (Do NOT take hydrocodone while prescribed to Gabapentin, as this can lead to extreme fatigue)
- Morphine (causes an increase in Gabapentin in system, escalating the side effects of the drug)
- Naproxen (similar results to Morphine)
There have been no recent recalls for Gabapentin.
Gabapentin Treatment and Use
Gabapentin is the generic form of an anticonvulsant medication which can be used alone or with other medications for the treatment and reduction of seizure occurrences caused by epilepsy. Gabapentin is also used in the treatment of pain caused after herpes or a shingles infection. Gabapentin can be used to treat the following symptoms:
- Seizures
- Restless leg syndrome (RLS)
Gabapentin is for adults or children over the age of 12. For children between the ages of 3 to 12, Gabapentin is used with other medications in the treatment of partial epilepsy.
How does Gabapentin Work?
It is not known exactly how Gabapentin works. The medication is thought to work through the reduction of excessive electric activity in the brain which causes epilepsy. Gabapentin synthesizes the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).
Gabapentin Dosage Information
Gabapentin comes in capsule, tablet, extended release tablet, and liquid form. Ask your doctor if Gabapentin is right for you. You should not take more or less than the dosage that your doctor recommends. For best results, take Gabapentin regularly.
You should not abruptly discontinue use of Gabapentin. Refer to the “Warnings and Labels” tab for more information.
What is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a brain disorder that occurs when there is abnormal activity in the brain. Epilepsy causes a patient to experience repeated seizures (convulsions) over time. Seizures are episodes of disturbed brain activity that can cause changes in attention or behavior. Symptoms of epilepsy vary from person to person. Epilepsy is often hereditary, and symptoms can begin between the ages of 5 to 20, although they can happen at any age.
Although gabapentin is used in the management of symptoms of epilepsy, it is not a cure for this condition.
