Medication: Gabapentin (Neurontin)
Dosage: 800 mg, 600 mg, 400 mg, 300 mg, 100 mg
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Gabapentin (Neurontin)

Gabapentin is a powerful anticonvulsant medication with significant pain-relieving properties. It is one of the most commonly prescribed drugs in its class, but it must be taken strictly according to the prescribed guidelines, as improper dosage or frequency of use can lead to withdrawal symptoms and potential dependence.

Gabapentin is primarily used to treat seizures of various causes, especially those related to epilepsy, and to reduce nervous system hyperexcitability. Its analgesic properties make it effective in managing neuropathic pain.

The medication is utilized across different medical specialties:

  • In neurology, it is used to treat epilepsy and seizure disorders in both adults and children.
  • In internal medicine and dermatology, it helps alleviate pain from shingles and spinal root-related pain.

Indications and limitations

It is important to understand the drug's mechanism of action and determine the appropriate indications for its use:

  • Used as monotherapy in patients over 12 years old with partial seizures, including cases where the condition generalizes.
  • Effective in treating neuropathic pain in adults.
  • Indicated for forms of epilepsy that are resistant to standard drug treatments.
  • Helps alleviate post-shingles pain.

Limitations and contraindications

Due to its potent components, Gabapentin has strict contraindications and should be used cautiously in individuals with internal organ dysfunction or neurological disorders. Key restrictions include:

  • Individual intolerance or hypersensitivity to the drug's components.
  • Acute inflammatory conditions related to endocrine dysfunction, such as pancreatitis, thyroid issues, pancreatic necrosis, and adrenal cortex disorders.
  • Drug-induced or viral liver damage, including biliary tract diseases like cirrhosis, liver failure, and hepatitis B and C.
  • Severe renal failure or patients undergoing hemodialysis.
  • Pregnancy, as there is insufficient evidence on the drug's effect on the fetus. Gabapentin may only be prescribed when the benefits to the mother outweigh potential risks to the fetus, and only after consulting the healthcare provider overseeing the pregnancy.
  • Breastfeeding, as the active substances are known to pass into breast milk, with unknown effects on the infant.
  • Children under 12 years old for treating seizures.
  • Pain in the lower back following shingles in individuals under 18 years of age.

Instructions for use

Gabapentin capsules should be taken orally, whole, with a sufficient amount of water, either before, during, or after meals.

  • For adults and adolescents undergoing epilepsy treatment, the initial dosage is 300 mg. The dose is increased by 300 mg each day until the desired clinical effect is achieved. Typically, an effective dose ranges from 900 to 1800 mg per day, though some patients may require up to 3600 mg daily.
  • For children aged 8-12 years, the initial dose is calculated based on 10-15 mg/kg/day. Over the next three days, the dose is adjusted to an effective level of 25-30 mg/kg/day, divided into three doses per day.

Alternatively, dosing can be based on the patient’s actual body weight:

  • For patients weighing 26-36 kg, the prescribed dose is 900 mg/day.
  • For those weighing 37-50 kg, the dose is 1200 mg/day.
  • If the patient weighs over 50 kg, the dose is increased to 1800 mg/day.
  • For neuropathic pain therapy, treatment starts with a minimum dose of 300 mg/day, gradually increasing to 1800 mg/day, divided into three doses.
  • For patients on hemodialysis, an initial loading dose of 300-400 mg is recommended, followed by 200-300 mg for every 4 hours of the dialysis procedure.

How to properly discontinue Gabapentin

Gabapentin should not be discontinued abruptly, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms and complications affecting the nervous system. These complications may include anxiety, aggression, mood swings, insomnia, hallucinations, and even the development of status epilepticus.

The safest approach is to gradually reduce the dosage over a period of 7-10 days. In cases of long-term use or high doses, especially over several years, the tapering process may take several months until the drug is completely discontinued.

Side effects

Gabapentin and its derivatives are generally safe, with the incidence of side effects being relatively low (6-7%). Adverse effects are mainly related to the drug's indirect action on gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors, which can affect nerve transmission. Common side effects include:

  • Headache
  • Gastrointestinal issues
  • Dry mouth
  • Rhinitis
  • Bronchitis

Less common side effects may include dizziness, confusion, and drowsiness. Rare side effects include:

  • Thought disorders
  • Ataxia (loss of coordination)
  • Reduced reflexes
  • Involuntary limb tremors

Overdose

An overdose of Gabapentin may occur with a single dose of 50 grams. Symptoms of overdose include:

  • Double vision
  • Dizziness
  • Lethargy
  • Drowsiness
  • Digestive issues

There is no specific antidote for Gabapentin overdose. The recommended treatment includes emergency hemodialysis and symptomatic management.

Withdrawal syndrome

Abrupt discontinuation of Gabapentin can trigger withdrawal symptoms, including seizures and, in severe cases, status epilepticus. Gradual tapering is essential to prevent these serious complications.