Gabapentin Side Effects
From Pharmacy Drug Guide
Gabapentin is a generic anti-seizure medication sold under the brand names Neurontin, Horizant, and Gabarone. The drug is prescribed to treat epilepsy and certain types of pain, such as postherpetic neuralgia (PNH) after shingles. Gabapentin extended-release tablets are also used to treat restless leg syndrome, or RLS.[1]
Side effects of gabapentin include tiredness, weakness, shaking, memory issues, upset stomach, unintentional eye movement, changes in thought patterns, swelling, weight gain, increase in appetite, and pain in the ears, back, or joints. In rarer cases, dangerous side effects like seizures, hoarseness in the throat, and difficulty swallowing or breathing can occur.[1]
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| Generic form of | Neurontin, Gabarone, Horizant |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Various |
| Uses | Treatment of epileptic seizures and neuropathic pain |
| Common side effects | Drowsiness, dry mouth, constipation, shaking, uncontrolled muscle movements, weight gain, etc. |
| Who should not take Gabapentin | Pregnant women, and patients with kidney disease, among others[2] |
| Disclaimer | The information provided by PharmacyDrugGuide.com is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not take any action based on the information on this page without consulting a physician. |
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Common Gabapentin Side Effects
Gabentin may produce drowsiness, tiredness or weakness, dizziness, headache, shaking of body parts that cannot be controlled, double or blurred vision, unsteadiness, anxiety, memory problems, odd thoughts, eye movements, upset stomach, heartburn, diarrhea, dry mouth, constipation, weight gain, swelling of body parts, pain, fever, runny nose, sneezing, cough, sore throat, signs of flu, and eye irritation. Patients with side effects that persist are advised to consult a physician.[1]
In severe cases, gabapentin can cause seizures, hoarseness or hampered breathing. In these cases, it is necessary to seek medical attention.[1]
Gabapentin Allergic Reaction
An allergic reaction can be an emergency situation. Medical care should be immediately sought if any of the following symptoms appear:[1]
- Rash
- Itching
- Swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, or eyes
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
Patients may be allergic to the gabapentin itself, or to any of the inactive ingredients used in the different brands of the drug.
About Medication Side Effects
Gabapentin Precautions and Warnings
- Before taking gabapentin, it is recommended that patients discuss previous or existing medical conditions with their physicians. Potential problems may arise with patients who have a history of depression, suicidal tendencies, kidney problems, mood issues or other mental illnesses.[1]
- Gabapentin can cause blurred vision and make users feel drowsy or dizzy. Therefore, doctors advise to take caution and know how the medication affects mental clarity before taking on tasks that require alertness, such as driving an automobile.[3]
- Some side effects, such as loss of coordination and swelling, are more prominent in older patients.[3]
- Children are more prone to experiencing behavioral changes such as restlessness, agression and trouble concentrating.[3]
About Gabapentin and Epilepsy
Epilepsy is diagnosed when more than one seizure is experienced by the patient. The condition is most commonly treated with drugs like gabapentin, which can stop or lessen the frequency of the episodes. When medication fails, surgery may be performed to help stop epilepsy. Gabapentin is not a cure for epilepsy, and once treatment is stopped the seizures may return. [4]
Also See: Gabapentin Coupons, Depakote, Depakote Side Effects, Gabapentin, Gabapentin Coupons, Keppra Side Effects, Lyrica Coupons, Lyrica Side Effects, Neurontin Side Effects, Keppra Coupons, Lamictal Coupons, Lamictal Free Samples, Topamax Free Samples
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References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a694007.html
- ↑ http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a694007.html
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 http://www.webmd.com/drugs/mono-8217-GABAPENTIN+-+ORAL.aspx?drugid=14208&drugname=Gabapentin+Oral&source=0
- ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/epilepsy/DS00342/DSECTION=treatments-and-drugs
