Detailed Information
Gabapentin (Neurontin), a second-generation antiepileptic medication,
was initially synthesized to mimic the structure of GABA for the treatment
of epilepsy. It affects chemicals and nerves in the body that are involved
in the cause of seizures and some types of pain.
Neurontin is used alone or in combination with other medications to
treat seizures caused by epilepsy in adults and children who are at
least 12 years old. Neurontin is also used with other medications to
treat partial seizures in children who are 3 to 12 years old. It is
also used to treat nerve pain caused by herpes virus or shingles (herpes
zoster).
How to take:
- To effectively control the seizures, it is important to take Neurontin
3 times a day, approximately every 8 hours. You should not go longer
than 12 hours without a dose of medication.
- The medication can be taken with or without food.
- Do not suddenly stop taking it, as this may cause an increase in
the frequency of your seizures.
- Neurontin may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision. Do
not drive or operate dangerous machinery or participate in any hazardous
activity that requires full mental alertness until you are certain
Neurontin does not have this effect on you.
Neurontin (Gabapentin) dosage
Epilepsy
Adults and children 12 years and over:
The recommended starting dose is 300 mg three times a day. After that,
the usual daily dosage ranges from 900 to 1,800 milligrams divided into
3 doses.
Children 3 to 12 years of age: Daily dosage is calculated according
to the child's weight. The usual starting dosage is 10 to 15 milligrams
per 2.2 pounds. Dosage is then increased over a period of three days
to 40 milligrams per 2.2 pounds for children aged 3 and 4, and 25 to
35 milligrams per 2.2 pounds for children aged 5 and over. The total
daily dosage is taken as 3 smaller doses throughout the day.
Postherpetic neuralgia
Treatment typically starts with a single 300 mg dose on the first day,
two 300 mg doses on the second day, and three 300 mg doses on the third
day. If necessary, the doctor may increase the daily total to as much
as 1,800 mg, divided into three doses.
Whether you are taking Neurontin for epilepsy or pain, the doctor
will lower the dose if you have poor kidney function. Also, if Neurontin
is discontinued or another drug is added to therapy, your doctor will
do this gradually, over a 1-week period.
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