Detailed Drug Information:

DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Gabapentin is in the class of drugscalled anticonvulsants because they are used to treat seizures (epilepsy) and herpes zoster (shingles).Gabapentin is related to the brain chemical gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA)but exactly how it works is unknown.

PREPARATIONS: Capsules are available in 100mg, 300mg, 400mg, and 800mg sizes by Park-Davis labs.

STORAGE: Store in a dry place at 15-30 degrees C (69-86 F)

PRESCRIBED FOR: Gabapentin is used for treating seizure disorders and herpes zoster (shingles).

DOSING: Gabapentin can be taken with or without food at dosesspecifically directed by your physician. Individual doses vary greatlybetween individuals. Usually the drug is taken two to three times daily.It is currently not approved under the age of 12 years old. Ifdiscontinued, gabapentin should be gradually withdrawn (usually over oneweek) as directed by the doctor.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Gabapentin appears to be relatively safe andhas not been shown to interact with other drugs except for it's potentialof added sedation. Gabapentin should not be taken within 2 hours ofMaalox. Gabapentin may interfere with the reading of N-Multistix indetecting urine protein.

SIDE EFFECTS: Neurontin has few side effects which includesleepiness, dizziness, unsteady gait, fatigue and eye twitching.