1 of 2

Write now Article Tools

Gabapentin is a drug that is primarily used in treating epilepsy. It prevents the nerves and chemicals that cause seizures. This medication can also help in relieving certain types of pain. It is in the category of anticonvulsant drugs.

This medicine can be used along with other anti-seizure types of drugs or alone. It can be taken by anyone age 12 and older, and treats partial seizure activity in children as young as 3.

Anyone that has kidney disease, liver or heart disease should let their doctor know their entire history on this before taking Gabapentin.

Gabapentin does have quite a number of side effects to it. It is important to realize what these are when taking the drug. This drug can instigate an allergic reaction for some people. If you have allergic symptoms such as tongue swelling, trouble breathing, and an outbreak of hives, seek emergency help at once.

The serious side effects of Gabapentin number a few. These are things such as, (1) feeling confused and disoriented, (2) skin seems to bruise easily, (3) eyes move back and forth quickly, (4) ankles and feet swell, and the adverse effect of more seizures instead of less.

This medicine can also cause a person to feel as though they are having the flu since it can also cause the chills, fevers, and many body aches.

If you are having any of these more serious side effects, yo need to call your doctor as soon as possible.

For children that are taking Gabapentin, there are some other types of side effects that can happen. These include behavioral issues, trouble with their memory and concentrating for any length of time in school. The less serious effects of children include trouble walking, feeling dizzy, drowsy, or tired, and also some blurry vision. There may even be stomach problems such as upset stomachs, diarrhea, and vomiting. If any of these occur in your child taking Gabapentin, talk to your treating doctor very quickly.

The dosage for this medication is usually 300 mg to begin with and then increasing the dosage until it reaches as much as 1800 three times a day. This is for the adults. For children, the dosage ranges from 10 to 15 mg per day in three dosages. Dosages in children do not usually exceed 40 mg.

While taking Gabapentin, you must be especially careful of taking any strong pain relievers such as Vicodin, Morphine, or Naproxen. For pain relieving medications consult your doctor or pharamacist's advice.

Learn more about this author, Jennifer Kirkman.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Side effects of Gabapentin?
We want to hear your view. Write now!