Product Details: Neurontin (Gabapentin)

Brand Name Options - Manufacturer: Pfizer

Generic Options - Manufacturer: Generic

What are Generics? A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, how it is taken, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name and works the same way in the body in the same amount of time.

The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is the generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (e.g. different shape or color), as trademark laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.

Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to invent a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name drug and sell it at substantial discounts.

Description

Chemical Name: GABAPENTIN (GA-ba-pen-tin)

Common uses
This medicine is an anticonvulsant used to treat seizures associated with epilepsy. It may also be used in adults to treat nerve pain following herpes zoster infection or to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Directions

Follow the directions for taking this medicine provided by your doctor. THIS MEDICINE MAY BE SWALLOWED WHOLE, or the contents of the capsule may be dissolved in juice or sprinkled over soft foods (such as applesauce) immediately before swallowing. This medicine may be taken on an empty stomach or with food. DO NOT TAKE ANTACIDS CONTAINING aluminum or magnesium within 2 hours of taking this medicine. STORE THIS MEDICINE at room temperature in a tightly-closed container, away from heat and light. Take this medicine regularly to receive the most benefit from it. Taking this medicine at the same times each day will help you to remember. CONTINUE TO TAKE THIS MEDICINE even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE, take it as soon as possible. If it is less than 4 hours until your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. DO NOT take 2 doses at once.

Cautions

Before taking gabapentin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney disease.

This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages as they may worsen these effects.

Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to its effects, especially swollen arms/legs or loss of coordination.

Caution is advised when using this drug in children because they may be more sensitive to its effects, especially the mental/mood changes (e.g., hostility).

This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

Gabapentin passes into breast milk. Because the effects of this drug on the nursing infant are unknown, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS that may occur while taking this medicine include tiredness, drowsiness, dizziness, tremor, back pain, dry mouth, constipation, increased appetite, or an upset stomach. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR AS SOON AS POSSIBLE if you experience decreased coordination, changes in vision (double or blurred vision), back and forth eye movements, flu-like symptoms, persistent sore throat or fever, swelling of ankles, mental or mood changes, memory loss, or trouble speaking. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

Active Ingredients

Gabapentin