Gabapentin 100mg

Gabapentin 100mg — Uses and Benefits

Gabapentin is mainly used to control certain types of seizures and to relieve nerve pain.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Partial seizures in epilepsy, often along with other medicines
• Nerve pain (neuropathic pain) such as pain after shingles (post-herpetic neuralgia)
• Nerve pain caused by diabetes, in some cases
• Certain chronic pain conditions as advised by the doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• It acts on the nervous system by calming overactive nerve signals
• It affects calcium channels in nerve cells, reducing the release of chemicals that cause pain and seizures
• It helps stabilise abnormal electrical activity in the brain and nerves

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a painkiller for ordinary headache, muscle pain, or fever
• It is not used to treat infections
• It is not a first-choice medicine for anxiety or sleep problems, though sometimes used off-label
• It does not cure epilepsy or nerve damage, it only controls symptoms

How to Use Gabapentin 100mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, in the dose and frequency advised
• Swallow the tablet or capsule with a glass of water
• Can be taken with or without food, but take it the same way each time
• Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly, even if you feel better, as it may cause withdrawal symptoms or seizures
• If your doctor decides to stop the medicine, the dose will usually be reduced gradually

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule
• Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one
• If you miss doses often, set a reminder or speak to your pharmacist

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep in the original pack until it is time to take it
• Keep out of reach and sight of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Gabapentin 100mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Sleepiness or drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Tiredness or weakness
• Unsteady walking or coordination problems

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Blurred or double vision
• Dry mouth
• Weight gain
• Swelling in hands, feet or legs
• Nausea or upset stomach
• Mood changes or irritability

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Signs of allergic reaction such as rash, swelling of face/lips/tongue, or difficulty breathing
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicidal thoughts
• Severe drowsiness or difficulty waking up
• Difficulty breathing or slowed breathing
• Fever, blistering skin rash, or swollen glands (rare but serious reaction)

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Gabapentin 100mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should be taken only under a doctor's supervision.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to gabapentin or any ingredient in the product
• Have been advised against it by your doctor for a specific medical reason

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have kidney disease, as the dose may need adjustment
• Have a history of depression, mood disorders, or suicidal thoughts
• Have breathing problems such as COPD
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Are elderly, as you may be more sensitive to side effects
• Consume alcohol regularly

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Opioid pain medicines (increased risk of drowsiness and breathing problems)
• Antacids (can reduce absorption, so space out timing)
• Other medicines that cause drowsiness, such as sedatives or sleeping pills
• Other anti-seizure medicines

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drive after taking this medicine?

No, avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you, as it can cause drowsiness and dizziness.

Is it safe to drink alcohol while on this medicine?

No, alcohol can increase drowsiness and other side effects, so it is best avoided.

How long will I need to take this medicine?

• Duration depends on your condition and response to treatment; your doctor will decide how long you need it.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.