What is Gabapentin used for?

Epilepsy (seizures/convulsions), nerve pain (such as pain after shingles or from diabetes), restless legs, body pain caused by damaged nerves

How do you take Gabapentin?

For adults, you usually start with 300 mg once on the first day, then 300 mg twice on the second day, then 300 mg three times a day from the third day. Your doctor may increase the dose gradually up to 1800 mg per day depending on your condition. You can take it with or without food, but swallow the capsule whole with water. Try to space your doses evenly throughout the day, and do not go more than 12 hours between doses.

What are the side effects of Gabapentin?

Feeling sleepy or drowsy, dizziness or unsteadiness, tiredness or weakness, headache, slight swelling of hands or feet

Who should not take Gabapentin?

People who are allergic to gabapentin or any ingredient in the capsule. People with serious kidney problems should only use it under strict doctor supervision with adjusted doses. It is not recommended for children under 6 years old.

Gabapentin: Dosage, Uses & Brands (Ablept 300 Capsules, Excel Gabapentin Caspules USP 300 mg, Gabapentin Medreich Capsules 100)

Showing: Adult dosing

How to take this drug

1.For adults, you usually start with 300 mg once on the first day, then 300 mg twice on the second day, then 300 mg three times a day from the third day.
2.Your doctor may increase the dose gradually up to 1800 mg per day depending on your condition.
3.You can take it with or without food, but swallow the capsule whole with water.
4.Try to space your doses evenly throughout the day, and do not go more than 12 hours between doses.

What if I Miss a Dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Never take two doses at once to make up for a missed one. Try not to go longer than 12 hours between doses.

What to watch out for

Gabapentin is a prescription-only medicine. Do not buy it from roadside sellers or take someone else's prescription, as wrong doses can be dangerous. Do not suddenly stop taking gabapentin on your own, as this can trigger seizures. Your doctor should gradually reduce your dose. This medicine can make you very drowsy, so avoid driving, operating machines, or doing anything that requires full alertness until you know how it affects you.

Common Side Effects

Feeling sleepy or drowsy
dizziness or unsteadiness
tiredness or weakness
headache
slight swelling of hands or feet

Serious Side Effects

Difficulty breathing or swelling of the face
lips
or throat (allergic reaction): go to the hospital immediately. Thoughts of harming yourself or unusual changes in mood or behaviour: tell your doctor right away. Severe skin rash with blistering or peeling: seek emergency care.

Drug Interactions

Alcohol can make the drowsiness and dizziness from gabapentin much worse, so avoid drinking while on this medicine. Antacids like magnesium or aluminium-based ones (e.g. Gestid, Maalox) can reduce how well gabapentin works, so take gabapentin at least 2 hours after taking antacids. Strong painkillers like tramadol or codeine combined with gabapentin can cause dangerous breathing problems.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Gabapentin may not be safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Do not take it if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding unless your doctor specifically says it is okay.

Who Should NOT Take This

People who are allergic to gabapentin or any ingredient in the capsule. People with serious kidney problems should only use it under strict doctor supervision with adjusted doses. It is not recommended for children under 6 years old.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in your car or near windows. Keep the capsules in their original container and always store out of reach of children.

For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.

Brand Names

Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies

Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check

Counterfeit Drug Warning

Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.

Gabapentin

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