Category: Gabapentin

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Fioricet is a drug providing combined anti-fever and analgesic action. It contains active components butalbital, acetaminophen and caffeine. The drug is designed for headache relief, including pain associated with migraine.

Fioricet may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Acetaminophen has analgesic and antipyretic effects, which means that it will help you get rid of the pain and a fever. It has a half-life (an abbreviated amount of time a decaying substance takes to decrease in half) of about 35 hours.  Butalbital comes from drugs named barbiturates. What it does is relax contracted muscles, which cause a headache. It has a half-life of about .25 to 3 hours.

The last component of Fioricet is caffeine, a stimulant for our nervous system, which produces constriction of the cerebral blood vessels and therefore relaxes the contractions in them, resulting in an improved blood flow. It has a half-life of 5 to 7 hours. These three components are distributed with 50 mg butalbital, 325 mg acetaminophen and 40 mg caffeine, in each tablet.

Fioricet and Tension Headaches

Tension headaches are described as headaches that are located in the back of the head, They are normally caused by tension in the body that is a result of a number of different things including overwork and stress. Tension headaches are the most common form of headache in adults. There are two basic types of tension headaches, chronic and episodic. Chronic tension headaches last for hours and may be continuous, meaning they occur more than 15 days a month and last for more than three months. Episodic tension headaches last only about 30 minutes and occur less than 15 days each month. Regardless of the type of tension headache you may be experiencing, there are a number of different remedies available. One thing you can try is fioricet.

Fioricet is a pain reliever available only by prescription through a doctor. It is primarily used to treat tension headaches that are caused by muscle contractions and is a combination of acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine. These three ingredients work together very well to help relieve the pain. Acetaminophen is a common pain reliever and fever reducer. Butalbital is a barbiturate that helps to relax the muscle contractions that are involved in the headache. The caffeine is a muscle stimulant that helps to relax muscle contractions in the blood vessels and improve blood flow in general. Butalbital may be habit forming, and this drug has been ranked as FDA Category C. This means that it is not known whether or not this drug will harm an unborn baby. Be sure to let your physician know if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Also, it can pass into breast milk and therefore may harm a nursing baby.

If this drug sounds like it may be of benefit to you, be sure to get a complete physical exam by a physician as there may be some underlying medical conditions that could be impacted by the use of this medication. With a prescription, Fioricet is available at most pharmacies. You may also be able to purchase it online from a participating US pharmacy. Regardless of the course you choose, taking steps to control your tension headaches will put you well on the road to recovery.

Order Fioricet online and forget about headache issues

We all know how irritating can be when our head hurts. It can spoil the whole day and result in mistakes whatever is that we do. Headache can make you completely restless; you will lose focus and will not be able to perform your usual duties with usual efficiency. When it becomes frequent and usual it can completely destroy your life. So, you would like all help possible and cheap fioricet generic is just perfect helper with these issues. It helps with headache issues caused by muscle tension and it has also antipyretic effect. So, it can be used for fewer as well and it is pretty handy as it covers several frequent problems. Fioricet no prescription drug is complex drug and it has three major components. It contains butalbital, acetaminophen and caffeine. These components combined are pretty effective and you will be more than pleased with the results.

You can order fioricet online and it can be purchased through websites listed on this page. This drug needs prescription. Still, there are some possible side effects and it is always good idea to consult your doctor before using any drug, so it stays for cheap fioricet as well. There are certain cases in which it is best to avoid it. In case of severe kidney or liver diseases it is best not to use fioricet without prescription. It can as most of other drugs make further damage on the diseased organs and sometimes it may lead even to their complete failure.

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It is a bit addictive drug so it is best to keep its usage to the minimum. You shouldn’t use it if you aren’t suffering the pain. Also, if you used to abuse drugs or alcohol, it isn’t the ideal solution. Former drug addicts or alcoholics can be easily hooked up on it and they should avoid using it. Also, Fioricet drug is not ideal for breast feeding women. It is unknown what effect has on the unborn child so the doctor’s advice is definitely a must if you are pregnant. It leaves residues in mother’s milk and it can transfer to a suckling through it.

It is best to keep your Fioricet locked in the drug cabinet as it can be very dangerous for children. They are often nosy and will swallow pills so keep it away from them. Increased dosages are also dangerous for the adults and you should keep an eye on dosing it pretty closely. Also, Fioricet drug can be dangerous to drug addicts so you shouldn’t give it to any person for who you know that he or she abuses drugs.

Fioricet for chronic tension headaches treatment

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: IP YOUR HEADACHE SYMPTOMS do not improve or if they become worse, contact your doctor. DO NOT SHARE THIS MEDICINE with others for whom it was not prescribed. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE for other health conditions. KEEP THIS MEDICINE out of the reach of children. IF USING THIS MEDICINE FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME, obtain refills before your supply runs out. The information in this monograph is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions, or adverse effects. This information is generalized and is not intended as specific medical advice. If you have questions about the medicines you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse.

Fioricet for Toothache

THIS MEDICINE CONTAINS ACETAMINOPHEN. Do not take additional acetaminophen for pain or fever without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. Ask your pharmacist if you have questions about which medicines contain acetaminophen. Acetaminophen may cause liver damage. If you drink alcohol on a daily basis, do not take this medicine without first discussing it with your doctor. Alcohol use combined with acetaminophen may increase your risk for liver damage. Pain medications work best if they are used as the first signs of pain (or first signs of migraine) occur. If you wait until the pain has significantly worsened, the pain medicine may not work as well.

BEFORE YOU BEGIN TAKING ANY NEW MEDICINE, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. FOR WOMEN TAKING BIRTH CONTROL PILLS: this medicine may decrease the effectiveness of your birth control pills.

To prevent pregnancy, use an additional form of birth control while you are taking this medicine. IF YOU PLAN ON BECOMING PREGNANT, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy.

THIS MEDICINE IS EXCRETED IN BREAST MILK. DO NOT BREAST-FEED while taking this medicine. POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS: SIDE EFFECTS, that may go away during treatment, include drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, or nausea. If they continueor are bothersome, check with your doctor. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

Fioricet dosing information

Usual Adult Dose of Fioricet for Headache:

Acetaminophen 300 mg, butalbital 50 mg, and caffeine 40 mg:
1 or 2 capsule(s) orally every 4 hours as needed. Maximum daily dose: 6 doses.

Acetaminophen 325 mg, butalbital 50 mg, and caffeine 40 mg:
1 or 2 tablet(s), capsule(s), or tablespoonful(s) orally every 4 hours.
Maximum daily dose: 6 doses

Acetaminophen 500 mg, butalbital 50 mg, and caffeine 40 mg:
1 tablet or capsule orally every 4 hours.
Maximum daily dose: 6 doses

Acetaminophen 750 mg, butalbital 50 mg, and caffeine 40 mg:
1 tablet orally every 4 hours.
Maximum daily dose: 5 tablets

Usual Pediatric Dose of Fioricet for Headache:

12 years and older:
Acetaminophen 300 mg, butalbital 50 mg, and caffeine 40 mg:
1 or 2 capsule(s) orally every 4 hours as needed. Maximum daily dose: 6 doses.

Is Fioricet Addictive?

Although it’s only a prescription headache medication, Fioricet has the potential to cause addiction. If a person follows their prescription guidelines and uses the medication correctly, the risks of addiction are low. However, if someone takes too much Fioricet, they may develop tolerance to its effects. A person with tolerance to a certain dose of Fioricet will require higher doses of the medication to alleviate their headaches.

When a person with tolerance starts to take more Fioricet, possibly by obtaining more prescriptions, they may eventually become dependent on it. In other words, they may feel unable to get through the day without taking Fioricet, and if they stop, they will experience symptoms of withdrawal. These symptoms arise because their body has grown accustomed to Fioricet in high doses.

If a Fioricet-dependent person attempts to weather withdrawal alone, it’s likely they will take Fioricet again just to relieve the symptoms. This is a hallmark characteristic of addiction. Anyone who compulsively abuses Fioricet to avoid withdrawal likely has an addiction to Fioricet. Additionally, people with an addiction to Fioricet will experience cravings for the medication which further compel them to keeping using it.

Moreover, the ingredient butalbital is an addictive substance in its own right. Butalbital can cause someone to “get high” because it’s a central nervous system depressant. Since butalbital is part of Fioricet, it is possible for someone to abuse Fioricet as a recreational drug. At high doses, Fioricet can intoxicate a person in a manner similar to alcohol. People who abuse Fioricet for this purpose have as much of a risk of developing an addiction as they would have if they repeatedly use an illegal drug.

The Symptoms of Fioricet Withdrawal

In most cases, Fioricet withdrawal lasts anywhere from 8 hours to three days after the last dose. Withdrawal is the biggest obstacle to overcoming dependence on Fioricet, which is why rehab centers provide detox programs so that people can safely undergo the withdrawal cycle without the risk of relapse. It is best to undergo withdrawal under medical supervision because some withdrawal symptoms are dangerous.

Rebound headaches are the most common symptoms of Fioricet withdrawal. Other symptoms of withdrawal include:

      • Anxiety
      • Dizziness
      • Insomnia
      • Muscle spasms
      • Nausea and vomiting
      • Rapid emotional changes
      • Seizures (in rare cases)
      • Tremors
      • Weakness

Fioricet (butalbital/acetaminophen/caffeine) has been around forever and is used by many for the treatment of chronic migraine or tension headaches. It is a mixture of a barbiturate, Tylenol (acetaminophen) and caffeine.

Now, many formularies are no longer covering Fioricet capsules. For those of you who have relied on it for years, this (understandably) may make you nervous.

Well, it turns out it doesn’t really work that well—and there are much better options out there.

    • Fioricet and Fioricet with Codeine are not as effective for acute migraine as newer medications. There isn’t any evidence that shows that barbiturate-containing meds (the butalbital in Fioricet) help for migraine treatment. In fact, the use of Fioricet with Codeine often results in chronic migraine and a “medication overuse headache.”
    • NSAIDS. Start with these instead. There is good evidence that nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs—ibuprofen, naproxen, and others—work well for the treatment of acute migraine.
    • Triptans. Imitrex (sumatriptan), Maxalt (rizatriptan), Relpax (eletriptan), and Frova (frovatriptan) are examples. Used alone or in combination with an NSAID, triptans work well for moderate to severe headaches that aren’t relieved by NSAIDs alone. Wondering which to choose? They generally work the same but you may notice fewer side effects with one over the other. Cost can also be an issue so you’ll want to pick a triptan that is covered by your insurance plan. It’s also a good idea to check GoodRx to see if the cash or discount price beats your co-pay.
    • Adding a nausea medication. For folks with moderate to severe migraine accompanied by nausea or vomiting, adding Reglan (metoclopramide) , Zofran (ondansetron) or Compazine (prochlorperazine) also helps.

Fioricet Overdose Symptoms and Treatment

A tablet of Fioricet contains 325 milligrams of acetaminophen, 50 milligrams of butalbital and 40 milligrams of caffeine. Acetaminophen is a pain reliever, butalbital is a barbiturate, and caffeine is a stimulant. The combination of drugs used in Fioricet is also sold under other brand names such as Alagesic, Dolgic, Esgic and Zebutal. All the active ingredients in Fioricet are potentially addictive, especially butalbital.

Physicians usually prescribe Fioricet for headaches caused by muscle contractions. They may also prescribe it for migraine headaches, although the Food and Drug Administration has not indicated it for this purpose. The typical adult dose of Fioricet is one to two tablets every four hours, not to exceed six tablets every 24 hours.

Common Overdose Symptoms

Acetaminophen relieves pain by inhibiting prostaglandin synthetase enzymes, and it has a half-life of no more than three hours. Butalbital depresses the central nervous system and has a half-life of about 35 hours. Caffeine causes the cerebral blood vessels to constrict and has a half-life of about six hours. Mild Fioricet overdose symptoms include the following:

      • Abdominal aches
      • Dizziness
      • Fatigue
      • Euphoria
      • Intestinal problems
      • Sedation
      • Shortness of breath
      • Vomiting

Butalbital can also cause Stevens-Johnson syndrome in rare cases, like all barbiturates. This syndrome is a life-threatening skin condition.

Did You Know?

Fioricet with codeine is a combination drug that also adds 30 milligrams of codeine to each tablet.

Withdrawal from Fioricet

“Withdrawal symptoms of Fioricet occur when you stop taking this drug after becoming dependent upon it.”Withdrawal symptoms of Fioricet occur when you stop taking this drug after becoming dependent upon it. A physician will typically reduce your dosage slowly in order to minimize the withdrawal symptoms, rather than abruptly discontinuing your usage of Fioricet. You may also receive medication to help you taper off Fioricet. Withdrawal symptoms usually begin between 8 and 36 hours after your last dose and may last up to a week or two. Signs of an overdose on Fioricet include the following:

      • Anxiety
      • Breathing trouble
      • Raised blood pressure
      • Elevated body temperature
      • Delirium
      • Tiredness
      • Headaches
      • Increased heart rate
      • Nausea
      • Ringing in the ears
      • Shaking

Available Treatment Options

In the event of an overdose on Fioricet, call 911 immediately. Emergency treatment is critical to ensure the person remains stable. After the immediate overdose risk is averted, subsequent care is essential to effectively address the drug abuse or addiction issue.

Fioricet rehab treatment normally begins with the detoxification phase. This process reduces the patient’s dosage of Fioricet until they are no longer taking the drug at all. The detoxification phase of the treatment eliminates the patient’s physical dependence on Fioricet. The remainder of a treatment program for Fioricet addiction deals primarily with the psychological aspect of the addiction.

 

Gabapentin side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to gabapentin: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Seek medical treatment if you have a skin rash with symptoms of a serious allergic reaction that can affect other parts of your body, including: fever, dark urine, blood in your urine, swollen glands, sore throat, extreme weakness or tiredness, unusual bruising or bleeding, muscle pain, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Report any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor, such as: mood or behavior changes, anxiety, depression, or if you feel agitated, hostile, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.

Call your doctor at once if you have:

  • increased seizures;
  • severe weakness or tiredness;
  • upper stomach pain;
  • chest pain, new or worsening cough with fever, trouble breathing;
  • severe tingling or numbness;
  • rapid back and forth movement of your eyes;
  • kidney problems–little or no urination, painful or difficult urination, swelling in your feet or ankles, feeling tired or short of breath; or
  • severe skin reaction–fever, sore throat, swelling in your face or tongue, burning in your eyes, skin pain followed by a red or purple skin rash that spreads (especially in the face or upper body) and causes blistering and peeling.

Some side effects are more likely in children taking gabapentin. Contact your doctor if the child taking this medication has any of the following side effects:

  • changes in behavior;
  • memory problems;
  • trouble concentrating; or
  • acting restless, hostile, or aggressive.

Common gabapentin side effects may include:

  • dizziness, drowsiness; or
  • headache.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Gabapentin Abuse

A 2013 study in Kentucky found that of the 503 participants reporting illegal drug use, 15% reported using Gabapentin in addition to other drugs to get high in the previous six months. Another study, working with a sample of participants meant to represent the national population, found almost a quarter of patients with co-prescriptions of opioids and Gabapentin were getting more than three times their prescribed amount to supply their addiction. People using the drug without a prescription is a growing problem in many areas. Due to the drug’s legal status, this is difficult to address from a policing standpoint. States where Gabapentin abuse is becoming more common are beginning to classify the drug as a more strictly controlled substance.

Gabapentin’s unique ability to address multiple ailments has made it one of the most popular prescription medications in the U.S. In May of 2019, GoodRx reported that it was the fifth-most prescribed drug in the nation. Despite its low abuse potential, its ability to be used in conjunction with other drugs causes widespread harm and addiction.

Signs of a Gabapentin Addiction

Effects of excessive Gabapentin use include:

  • Drowsiness
  • Coordination problems
  • Tremors
  • Dizziness
  • Depression
  • Suicidal thoughts/behaviors
  • Changes in mood
  • Dizziness
  • Poor coordination
  • Forgetfulness
  • Anxiety
  • Difficulty speaking
  • Inability to feel pleasure

It is important to try to recognize these symptoms and to be wary of other red flags, such as the presence or abundance of pill bottles. These effects can be detrimental to one’s health, livelihood, and overall safety.

Many Gabapentin users in early recovery abuse Gabapentin because at high doses (800mg or more), they may experience a euphoric-like high that does not show up on drug screens. Gabapentin abusers typically take the drug in addition to opioids to produce their desired high, a dangerous and potentially deadly combination. It is possible to fatally overdose on Gabapentin, both on its own or in conjunction with other drugs. However, there is currently no antidote that can be administered to someone in the case of a Gabapentin overdose as there is with opioid overdoses. If you find a loved one showing signs of an overdose–drowsiness, muscle weakness, lethargy and drooping eyelids, diarrhea, and sedation—seek medical attention immediately.

Signs of Gabapentin Addiction

  • Lying about or exaggerating symptoms to doctors
  • Seeking out multiple doctors to get extra doses
  • Switching doctors after the original doctor refuses to continue prescribing the medication
  • Changes in social habits and/or circles
  • Changes in personal hygiene and grooming habits
  • Constant preoccupation with the drug
  • Unease at the thought of the drug being unavailable
  • Refusal to quit despite social, financial, or legal consequences
  • Failed attempts to quit

 

What is gabapentin?

Gabapentin is an anti-epileptic medication, also called an anticonvulsant. It affects chemicals and nerves in the body that are involved in the cause of seizures and some types of pain.

Gabapentin capsules, tablets, and oral solution are used along with other medications to help control certain types of seizures in people who have epilepsy. Gabapentin capsules, tablets, and oral solution are also used to relieve the pain of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN; the burning, stabbing pain or aches that may last for months or years after an attack of shingles).

Gabapentin extended-release tablets (Horizant) are used to treat restless legs syndrome (RLS; a condition that causes discomfort in the legs and a strong urge to move the legs, especially at night and when sitting or lying down). Gabapentin is in a class of medications called anticonvulsants. Gabapentin treats seizures by decreasing abnormal excitement in the brain.

Gabapentin relieves the pain of PHN by changing the way the body senses pain. It is not known exactly how gabapentin works to treat restless legs syndrome.

Gabapentin is used in adults to treat nerve pain caused by herpes virus or shingles (herpes zoster).

Gabapentin 800 mg Tab-IVA

The Horizant brand of gabapentin is also used to treat restless legs syndrome (RLS).

The Neurontin brand of gabapentin is also used to treatseizures in adults and children who are at least 3 years old.

Use only the brand and form of gabapentin that your doctor has prescribed. Check your medicine each time you get a refill at the pharmacy, to make sure you have received the correct form of this medication.

Important information

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Gabapentin is not a controlled substance. You can order Gabapentin online with a doctor prescription.

Gabapentin May Increase Your Suicide Thoughts

Some people have thoughts about suicide while taking this medicine. Your doctor will need to check your progress at regular visits while you are using Neurontin. Your family or other caregivers should also be alert to changes in your mood or symptoms.

In 2009 the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a warning of an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in patients taking some anticonvulsant drugs, including gabapentin, modifying the packaging inserts to reflect this.  A 2010 meta analysis confirmed the increased risk of suicide associated with gabapentin use.

Gabapentin can be used for

    • Postmenopausal Symptoms
    • Alcohol Withdrawal
    • Occipital Neuralgia
    • Hot Flashes
    • Trigeminal Neuralgia
    • Bipolar Disorder
    • Migraine
    • Cough
    • Anxiety
    • Restless Legs Syndrome
    • Postherpetic Neuralgia
    • Insomnia
    • Pruritus
    • Benign Essential Tremor
    • Pudendal Neuralgia
    • Transverse Myelitis
    • Fibromyalgia
    • Spondylolisthesis
    • Peripheral Neuropathy
    • Pain
    • Neuropathic Pain
    • Epilepsy
    • Vulvodynia
    • Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
    • Hiccups
    • Syringomyelia
    • Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome
    • Burning Mouth Syndrome
    • Periodic Limb Movement Disorder
    • Small Fiber Neuropathy
    • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

How should this medicine be used?

Gabapentin comes as a capsule, a tablet, an extended-release (long-acting) tablet, and an oral solution (liquid) to take by mouth. Gabapentin capsules, tablets, and oral solution are usually taken with a full glass of water (8 ounces [240 milliliters]), with or without food, three times a day.

These medications should be taken at evenly spaced times throughout the day and night; no more than 12 hours should pass between doses.

The extended-release tablet (Horizant) is taken with food once daily at about 5 PM. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take gabapentin exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Gabapentin extended-release tablets cannot be substituted for another type of gabapentin product. Be sure that you receive only the type of gabapentin that was prescribed by your doctor. Ask your pharmacist if you have any questions about the type of gabapentin you were given.

Swallow the extended-release tablets whole; do not cut, chew, or crush them.

If your doctor tells you to take one-half of a regular tablet as part of your dose, carefully split the tablet along the score mark. Use the other half-tablet as part of your next dose. Properly dispose of any half-tablets that you have not used within several days of breaking them.

If you are taking gabapentin to control seizures or PHN, your doctor will probably start you on a low dose of gabapentin and gradually increase your dose as needed to treat your condition. If you are taking gabapentin to treat PHN, tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve during your treatment.

Gabapentin may help to control your condition but will not cure it. Continue to take gabapentin even if you feel well. Do not stop taking gabapentin without talking to your doctor, even if you experience side effects such as unusual changes in behavior or mood.

If you suddenly stop taking gabapentin tablets, capsules, or oral solution, you may experience withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, nausea, pain, and sweating.

If you are taking gabapentin to treat seizures and you suddenly stop taking the medication, you may experience seizures more often. Your doctor may decrease your dose gradually over at least a week.

Your doctor or pharmacist will give you the manufacturer’s patient information sheet (Medication Guide) when you begin treatment with gabapentin and each time you refill your prescription. Read the information carefully and ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions. You can also visit the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) website (http://www.fda.gov/Drugs) or the manufacturer’s website to obtain the Medication Guide.

Other uses for this medicine

Gabapentin is also sometimes used to relieve the pain of diabetic neuropathy (numbness or tingling due to nerve damage in people who have diabetes), and to treat and prevent hot flashes (sudden strong feelings of heat and sweating) in women who are being treated for breast cancer or who have experienced menopause (”change of life”, the end of monthly menstrual periods). Talk to your doctor about the risks of using this medication for your condition.

This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow?

Before taking gabapentin,

  • tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to gabapentin, any other medications, or any of the inactive ingredients in the type of gabapentin you plan to take. Ask your pharmacist for a list of the inactive ingredients.
  • you should know that gabapentin is available in different forms that may be prescribed for different uses. Ask your doctor to be sure that you are not taking more than one product that contains gabapentin.
  • tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take. Be sure to mention any of the following: antidepressants; antihistamines; medications for anxiety; medications that make you feel dizzy or drowsy; medications for mental illness; naproxen (Aleve, Anaprox, Naprosyn, others); opioid (narcotic) medications for pain such as hydrocodone (in Hydrocet, in Vicodin, others), morphine (Avinza, Kadian, MSIR, others), or oxycodone OxyContin, in Percocet, in Roxicet, others); sedatives; medications for seizures; sleeping pills, and tranquilizers. Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
  • if you are taking antacids such as Maalox or Mylanta, take them at least 2 hours before you take gabapentin tablets, capsules, or solution.
  • tell your doctor if you have or have ever had lung or kidney disease. If you will be taking the extended-release tablets, also tell your doctor if you need to sleep during the day and stay awake at night.
  • tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking gabapentin, call your doctor.
  • if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking gabapentin.
  • you should know that this medication may make you drowsy or dizzy, may slow your thinking, and may cause loss of coordination. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you, and your doctor agrees that it is safe for you to begin these activities.
  • if you are giving gabapentin to your child, you should know that your child’s behavior and mental abilities may change while he or she is taking gabapentin. Your child may have sudden changes in mood, become hostile or hyperactive, have difficulty concentrating or paying attention, or be drowsy or clumsy. Have your child avoid activities that could be dangerous, such as riding a bicycle, until you know how gabapentin affects him or her.
  • remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by this medication.
  • you should know that your mental health may change in unexpected ways and you may become suicidal (thinking about harming or killing yourself or planning or trying to do so) while you are taking gabapentin for the treatment of epilepsy, mental illness, or other conditions.

A small number of adults and children 5 years of age and older (about 1 in 500 people) who took anticonvulsants such as gabapentin to treat various conditions during clinical studies became suicidal during their treatment. Some of these people developed suicidal thoughts and behavior as early as one week after they started taking the medication. There is a risk that you may experience changes in your mental health if you take an anticonvulsant medication such as gabapentin, but there may also be a risk that you will experience changes in your mental health if your condition is not treated.

You and your doctor will decide whether the risks of taking an anticonvulsant medication are greater than the risks of not taking the medication. You, your family, or your caregiver should call your doctor right away if you experience any of the following symptoms: panic attacks; agitation or restlessness; new or worsening irritability, anxiety, or depression; acting on dangerous impulses; difficulty falling or staying asleep; aggressive, angry, or violent behavior; mania (frenzied, abnormally excited mood); talking or thinking about wanting to hurt yourself or end your life; withdrawing from friends and family; preoccupation with death and dying; giving away prized possessions; or any other unusual changes in behavior or mood. Be sure that your family or caregiver knows which symptoms may be serious so they can call the doctor if you are unable to seek treatment on your own.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take gabapentin capsules, tablets, or oral solution, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose or if you forget to take gabapentin extended-release tablets, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Gabapentin may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

      • drowsiness
      • tiredness or weakness
      • dizziness
      • headache
      • uncontrollable shaking of a part of your body
      • double or blurred vision
      • unsteadiness
      • anxiety
      • memory problems
      • strange or unusual thoughts
      • unwanted eye movements
      • nausea
      • vomiting
      • heartburn
      • diarrhea
      • dry mouth
      • constipation
      • increased appetite
      • weight gain
      • swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
      • back or joint pain
      • fever
      • runny nose, sneezing, cough, sore throat, or flu-like symptoms
      • ear pain
      • red, itchy eyes (sometimes with swelling or discharge)

Some side effects may be serious. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

      • rash
      • itching
      • swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, or eyes
      • hoarseness
      • difficulty swallowing or breathing
      • seizures
      • difficulty breathing; bluish-tinged skin, lips, or fingernails; confusion; or extreme sleepiness

Gabapentin may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.

If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online (http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch) or by phone (1-800-332-1088).

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store the tablets, extended-release tablets, and capsules at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Store the oral solution in the refrigerator.

It is important to keep all medication out of sight and reach of children as many containers (such as weekly pill minders and those for eye drops, creams, patches, and inhalers) are not child-resistant and young children can open them easily. To protect young children from poisoning, always lock safety caps and immediately place the medication in a safe location – one that is up and away and out of their sight and reach. http://www.upandaway.org

Unneeded medications should be disposed of in special ways to ensure that pets, children, and other people cannot consume them. However, you should not flush this medication down the toilet. Instead, the best way to dispose of your medication is through a medicine take-back program. Talk to your pharmacist or contact your local garbage/recycling department to learn about take-back programs in your community. See the FDA’s Safe Disposal of Medicines website (http://goo.gl/c4Rm4p) for more information if you do not have access to a take-back program.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of overdose, call the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222. Information is also available online at https://www.poisonhelp.org/help. If the victim has collapsed, had a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can’t be awakened, immediately call emergency services at 911.

Symptoms of overdose may include the following:

  • double vision
  • slurred speech
  • drowsiness
  • diarrhea

What other information should I know?

Keep all appointments with your doctor.

Before having any laboratory test, tell your doctor and the laboratory personnel that you are taking gabapentin.

If you use a dipstick to test your urine for protein, ask your doctor which product you should use while taking this medication.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.

Brand names

    • Gralise®
    • Horizant®
    • Neurontin®

Last Revised – 05/15/2020

What does Gabapentin use for ?

Gabapentin can be used to treat following health conditions:

  • Alcohol Withdrawal
  • Anxiety
  • Benign Essential Tremor
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Burning Mouth Syndrome
  • Cluster-Tic Syndrome
  • Cough
  • Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
  • Epilepsy
  • Erythromelalgia
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Hiccups
  • Hot Flashes
  • Hyperhidrosis
  • Insomnia
  • Lhermitte’s Sign
  • Migraine
  • Nausea/Vomiting, Chemotherapy Induced
  • Neuropathic Pain
  • Occipital Neuralgia
  • Pain
  • Periodic Limb Movement Disorder
  • Peripheral Neuropathy
  • Postherpetic Neuralgia
  • Postmenopausal Symptoms
  • Pruritus
  • Pudendal Neuralgia
  • Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome
  • Restless Legs Syndrome
  • Small Fiber Neuropathy
  • Spondylolisthesis
  • Syringomyelia
  • Transverse Myelitis
  • Trigeminal Neuralgia
  • Vulvodynia

Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant prescription drug that goes by several brand names including, Neurontin, Gralise, Gabarone, and Fanatrex. It was approved by the FDA in December 1993 for the following main uses.

    1. Controlling certain types of seizures in people who have epilepsy
    2. Relieving nerve pain (think: burning, stabbing, or aches) from shingles
    3. Calming restless legs syndrome

 

10 Most Common Questions About Gabapentin

  1. Is there a generic version of gabapentin available?
    Since its manufacturer no longer has patent protection on the drug, there are generic versions on the market. They include Neurontin, Gralise, Gabarone, and Fanatrex.
  2. How much does gabapentin cost?
    According to GoodRx.com, generic Gabapentin can cost between $7-$27 for ninety 100mg or 300mg capsules and between $14-$53 for ninety 400mg capsules.
  3. What is the difference between gabapentin and other mood-stabilizing medications?
    This is kind of a trick question. Technically, even though we hear the term “mood stabilizer” quite often, especially in the context of bipolar disorder, the FDA doesn’t officially recognize the term. Not only that, but even researchers and psychiatrists can’t come with a definition everyone agrees on. That said, lithium (which is probably the drug anyone with bipolar disorder is most familiar with) has significant differences from gabapentin. Lithium is in a class called bipolar disorder agents. Gabapentin is in a class called anticonvulsants. Their chemical structures are not the same and they work differently in the body. In addition to being used for bipolar, both have also been used for epilepsy.
  4. How is gabapentin different from valproate and carbamazepine?
    There are claims that gabapentin was successful in helping with rapid cycling and mixed bipolar states in people who have not received relief from valproate or carbamazepine. It appeared that gabapentin helped more with anxiety and agitation than the other two drugs. Likewise, it has been shown to be beneficial with certain types of tardive dyskinesia.
  5. Are there potential interaction issues for people taking carbamazepine, valproate or lithium?
    No interactions between gabapentin and valproate, carbamazepine or lithium have been reported.
  6. Does gabapentin interact with any other prescriptions or over-the-counter medications, such as MAO inhibitors?
    There are only a few interaction issues that are known. Antacids have been known to decrease absorption of the drug. Gabapentin could also increase the level of concentration of some oral contraceptives by up to 13 percent. As far as MAO’s, this particular combination doesn’t present any special issues, but you should always let your doctor and pharmacist know all the medications you are taking.
  7. Are there any interaction issues between gabapentin and alcohol?
    Alcohol has been known to increase the discomfort of Gabapentin’s side effects.
  8. Is it safe for a woman who is pregnant, about to become pregnant, or nursing to take gabapentin?
    The FDA placed gabapentin in pregnancy category C. According to studies done on animals, there has been evidence of fetal loss. However, there have been no studies done on humans. Despite all this, experts believe that the benefits gained from taking gabapentin may outweigh its risks.
  9. Can children and adolescents safely take gabapentin? What about the elderly?
    Gabapentin may be used to treat seizures in children as young as 3 years old. The dosages will be different from what you’d give an adult, and the doctor may specify a particular brand name, such as Neurontin. Similar to children, the elderly may start on a lower dose.
  10. Why do doctors prescribe gabapentin when there are other mood stabilizing medications that have been around for many years? True, there are medications that have been shown to be more effective in double-blind studies that are placebo controlled. But there are two reasons why physicians prescribe gabapentin over more established drugs. One: not everyone improves with the older, more established medications. Two: some people can’t deal with the side effects of the other drugs.

DISCLAIMER: The information contained in this article should NOT be used as a substitute for the advice of an appropriately qualified and licensed physician or other health care provider.  This article mentions drugs that were FDA-approved and available at the time of publication and may not include all possible drug interactions or all FDA warnings or alerts. The author of this page explicitly does not endorse this drug or any specific treatment method. If you have health questions or concerns about interactions, please check with your physician or go to the FDA site for a comprehensive list of warnings.

Warning: The Food and Drug Administration issued a serious warning about gabapentin in 2019. According to the FDA, breathing difficulties may occur in patients who have underlying respiratory problems (or in the elderly) when gabapentin (Neurontin, Gralise, Horizant) or pregabalin (Lyrica, Lyrica CR) is taken with other medicines that depress the central nervous system. There is evidence of risk with gabapentinoids alone in otherwise healthy people too; though this evidence is not as strong and is still being monitored.

Additionally, note that there are not a lot of comprehensive studies that look at gabapentin as a way to treat anxiety, mood disorders or tardive dyskinesia (uncontrollable movements). As with any medication, always talk to your health care professional if you have any questions or concerns.

Gabapentin Dosing Information

Usual Adult Dose for Epilepsy:

Initial dose: 300 mg orally on day one, 300 mg orally twice a day on day two, then 300 mg orally 3 times a day on day three.

Maintenance dose: 900 to 1800 mg orally in 3 divided doses. If necessary, the dose may be increased using 300 mg or 400 mg capsules three times a day up to 1800 mg/day.

Dosages up to 2400 mg/day have been well tolerated in long-term clinical studies. Doses of 3600 mg/day have also been administered to a small number of patients for a relatively short duration, and have been well tolerated. The maximum time between doses in the three times a day schedule should not exceed 12 hours.

Gabapentin Dosing Information
Gabapentin Dosing Information

The safety and effectiveness of gabapentin available under the trade name Gralise (R) or Horizant (R) in patients with epilepsy has not been studied.

Usual Adult Dose for Postherpetic Neuralgia:

Initial dose: 300 mg orally on day one, 300 mg orally twice a day on day two, then 300 mg orally 3 times a day on day three.

The dose may be titrated up as needed for pain relief to a daily dose of 1800 mg.
Maintenance dose: 900 to 1800 mg orally in 3 divided doses.

Efficacy was demonstrated in clinical studies over a range of 1800 mg/day to 3600 mg/day. However, no additional benefit was demonstrated from the use of doses over 1800 mg/day.

Gabapentin available under the trade name Gralise (R):

Maintenance dose: Gralise (R) should be titrated to 1800 mg orally once daily with the evening meal.

Recommended titration schedule:
Day 1: 300 mg orally with the evening meal
Day 2: 600 mg orally with the evening meal
Days 3 through 6: 900 mg orally with the evening meal
Days 7 through 10: 1200 mg orally with the evening meal
Days 11 through 14: 1500 mg orally with the evening meal
Day 15: 1800 mg orally with the evening meal

Gralise (R) is not interchangeable with other gabapentin products because of differing pharmacokinetic profiles that affect the frequency of administration.

Gabapentin enacarbil extended release tablets available under the trade name Horizant (R):

The recommended dosage is 600 mg orally twice daily. Therapy should be initiated at a dose of 600 mg orally in the morning for 3 days of therapy, then increased to 600 mg twice daily (1,200 mg/day) on day four.

Gabapentin enacarbil extended release tablets available under the trade name Horizant (R) and gabapentin are not interchangeable.

Usual Adult Dose for Restless Legs Syndrome:

Gabapentin enacarbil available under the trade name Horizant (R):
600 mg orally once daily with food at about 5 PM

Usual Pediatric Dose for Epilepsy:

Less than 3 years: Effectiveness has not been established.

Greater than or equal to 3 and less than 12 years:
Starting Dose: ranges from 10 to 15 mg/kg/day in 3 divided doses.
Effective Dose: reached by upward titration over a period of approximately 3 days. The effective dose of gabapentin in patients 5 years of age and older is 25 to 35 mg/kg/day and given in divided doses (three times a day). The effective dose in pediatric patients ages 3 and 4 years is 40 mg/kg/day and given in divided doses (three times a day). Gabapentin may be administered as the oral solution, capsule, or tablet, or using combinations of these formulations. Dosages up to 50 mg/kg/day have been well tolerated in a long term clinical study. The maximum time interval between doses should not exceed 12 hours.

Greater than 12 years:
Initial dose: 300 mg orally on day one, 300 mg orally twice a day on day two, then 300 mg orally 3 times a day on day three.
Maintenance dose: 900 to 1800 mg orally in 3 divided doses. If necessary, the dose may be increased using 300 mg or 400 mg capsules three times a day up to 1800 mg/day. Dosages up to 2400 mg/day have been well tolerated in long term clinical studies. Doses of 3600 mg/day have also been administered to a small number of patients for a relatively short duration, and have been well tolerated. The maximum time between doses in the three times a day schedule should not exceed 12 hours.

What other drugs will affect gabapentin?

Taking this medicine with other drugs that make you sleepy can worsen this effect. Ask your doctor before taking gabapentin with a sleeping pill, narcotic pain medicine, muscle relaxer, or medicine for anxiety, depression, or seizures.

Other drugs may interact with gabapentin, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.