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Gpentin300 mg
Opsonin Pharma Ltd.
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Gabapentin: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh
Gabapentin is indicated for the following uses, based on strength of evidence: FDA-approved indications Adjunctive therapy for partial-onset seizures (with or without secondary generalization) in…
About Gabapentin
Indications of Gabapentin
Gabapentin is indicated for the following uses, based on strength of evidence:
FDA-approved indications
- Adjunctive therapy for partial-onset seizures (with or without secondary generalization) in adults and children 3 years of age and older with epilepsy, used together with other antiepileptic medicines.
- Postherpetic neuralgia (nerve pain persisting after shingles/herpes zoster) in adults.
Guideline-supported / commonly used off-label
- Diabetic peripheral neuropathy and other neuropathic pain syndromes - not an FDA-approved indication for immediate-release Gabapentin, but widely supported by clinical guidelines as a first-line option for neuropathic pain.
- Restless legs syndrome (RLS) - a related prodrug formulation (gabapentin enacarbil) is FDA-approved for RLS; plain Gabapentin is sometimes used similarly off-label under physician supervision.
Gabapentin is not effective as monotherapy for seizure control and must always be combined with other antiepileptic drugs when used for epilepsy. It should only be used for other off-label indications under a physician's direction.
Dosage & Administration of Gabapentin
Adult dosing by indication
| Indication | Typical Dosing |
|---|---|
| Epilepsy (adjunctive, partial-onset seizures) | Initiate at 300 mg on Day 1, 300 mg twice daily on Day 2, then 300 mg three times daily on Day 3; titrate as needed. Effective maintenance dose is usually 900-1800 mg/day in three divided doses (some patients may require up to 3600 mg/day under specialist supervision). |
| Postherpetic neuralgia | Day 1: 300 mg once daily; Day 2: 300 mg twice daily; Day 3: 300 mg three times daily. May be titrated up to 1800 mg/day in three divided doses as needed and tolerated. |
| Neuropathic pain (off-label, e.g. diabetic neuropathy) | Usually started at 300 mg once daily and gradually titrated to an effective dose, commonly 900-1800 mg/day in divided doses, per physician's advice. |
Pediatric dosing (epilepsy, adjunctive)
Children 3 to 11 years: initiated at 10-15 mg/kg/day in three divided doses, titrated over approximately 3 days to an effective dose, usually 25-40 mg/kg/day in three divided doses, based on physician assessment. Not established for pediatric neuropathic pain.
Dose adjustment in renal impairment
Because Gabapentin is eliminated renally, dose reduction is required based on creatinine clearance (CrCl); patients on hemodialysis require a supplemental dose after each dialysis session. Renal dosing must be individualized by the prescribing physician using creatinine clearance calculations.
Administration
Gabapentin may be taken with or without food. If using antacids containing aluminum or magnesium, take Gabapentin at least 2 hours afterward, as antacids can reduce its absorption. Swallow capsules/tablets whole with water; do not crush chew extended-release tablets. Doses should be spaced evenly and the first dose of the day should not be more than 12 hours apart from the last dose of the previous day when on a three-times-daily schedule.
Do not stop taking Gabapentin abruptly, as this can precipitate withdrawal seizures, even in patients without a history of epilepsy. If discontinuation is needed, the physician will taper the dose gradually over a minimum of one week.
Side Effects of Gabapentin
Side effects associated with Gabapentin are generally dose-related and most common during the initial titration period.
Common side effects
- Dizziness
- Somnolence (drowsiness/sedation)
- Peripheral edema (swelling of hands/feet)
- Ataxia (unsteady gait, poor coordination)
- Fatigue
- Nausea, vomiting
- Blurred or double vision
- Weight gain
Serious side effects (seek medical attention)
- Mood or behavioral changes, new or worsening depression, anxiety, agitation, or thoughts of self-harm/suicide (a class warning for all anticonvulsants)
- Signs of severe allergic reaction (multiorgan hypersensitivity): rash, fever, swollen lymph nodes, facial swelling
- Difficulty breathing or signs of respiratory depression, especially when combined with opioids or other CNS depressants
- Withdrawal seizures if the medicine is stopped abruptly
Contraindications of Gabapentin
Gabapentin is contraindicated in patients with a known history of hypersensitivity to Gabapentin or any component of the formulation.
Frequently Asked Questions about Gabapentin
What is Gabapentin used for?
Gabapentin is primarily used as an add-on treatment for partial-onset seizures in epilepsy and to relieve nerve pain after shingles (postherpetic neuralgia). It is also commonly used, under a doctor's guidance, for other types of nerve pain such as diabetic neuropathy.
Can I stop taking Gabapentin suddenly if I feel better?
No. Stopping Gabapentin abruptly can cause withdrawal seizures, even in people who do not have epilepsy. Always consult your physician, who will taper the dose gradually over at least a week if discontinuation is needed.
Is it safe to take Gabapentin with opioid painkillers?
Combining Gabapentin with opioids increases the risk of severe drowsiness, slowed or difficult breathing, and can be life-threatening. This combination should only be used if specifically prescribed and closely monitored by a physician.
Can I take Gabapentin during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Gabapentin should be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding only if your physician determines the benefit outweighs the potential risk, as safety data in humans are limited. Do not stop or start Gabapentin during pregnancy without medical advice, since uncontrolled seizures also carry risks.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Gabapentin?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose, in which case skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose. Maintain a consistent dosing schedule as prescribed, and never skip doses of Gabapentin for a prolonged period without medical advice.
What are the most common side effects of Gabapentin?
The most common side effects of Gabapentin include dizziness, drowsiness, swelling in the hands or feet, unsteady walking, and fatigue. These are often more noticeable when starting treatment or increasing the dose. Contact your doctor if side effects are severe or persistent, or if you notice mood changes or thoughts of self-harm.
Disclaimer
The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy, and the absence of specific information about a drug should not be taken as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences arising from this information, so please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.