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This is an information resource — not medical advice.

PillCodex provides general educational information about medications. This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Never start, stop, or change a medication based on what you read here. Always speak to your doctor, pharmacist, or qualified healthcare provider with questions about your medications.

🚨 If you are experiencing a medical emergency or think you may have taken too much of a medication, call emergency services (911 in the US) or go to your nearest emergency room immediately.

Anticonvulsant / Neuropathic Pain Agent🔒 Prescription only

What Is Gabapentin (Neurontin) Used For?

Brand names: Neurontin, Gralise

Gabapentin is used to treat nerve pain, epilepsy, and restless legs syndrome. It is also widely used off-label for anxiety, fibromyalgia, and other conditions.

What is Gabapentin used for?

Neuropathic pain (nerve pain)
Epilepsy (partial seizures)
Postherpetic neuralgia (shingles pain)
Restless legs syndrome
Fibromyalgia (off-label)
Anxiety (off-label)

How does Gabapentin work?

Gabapentin binds to calcium channels in nerve cells, reducing the release of neurotransmitters that transmit pain signals and cause seizures, calming overactive nerve activity.

Dosage information

💊Available forms

100mg capsules
300mg capsules
400mg capsules
600mg tablets
800mg tablets
+1 more

📏Typical dosage

Highly variable: 300–3600mg per day in divided doses. Started low and increased gradually based on condition.

⚠️ Dosage varies by individual. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions — never self-dose based on general information.

Side effects

Common

Dizziness (very common)
Drowsiness and fatigue
Coordination problems
Weight gain
Blurred vision
Swelling of hands and feet

⚠️ Serious — contact your doctor

Respiratory depression when combined with opioids or CNS depressants (potentially fatal)
Suicidal thoughts (black box — monitor mood changes)
Withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly

Important warnings

Black box: serious breathing problems when combined with opioids, benzodiazepines, or alcohol

Do NOT stop suddenly — can trigger seizures

Monitor for suicidal thoughts and mood changes

Significant drowsiness — do not drive until you know how it affects you

Drug interactions

These substances may interact with Gabapentin. This is not a complete list — always tell your doctor and pharmacist ALL medications and supplements you take.

Opioids (very dangerous — respiratory depression)BenzodiazepinesAlcoholAntacids (reduce absorption — take 2 hours apart)Other CNS depressants

Pregnancy & breastfeeding

🤰 Use with caution — discuss with your doctor

Always consult your doctor or obstetrician before taking any medication during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Frequently asked questions

What is gabapentin used for?

Gabapentin treats nerve pain, epilepsy, postherpetic neuralgia (shingles pain), and restless legs syndrome. Also used off-label for fibromyalgia and anxiety.

Is gabapentin addictive?

Gabapentin has abuse and dependency potential, especially in people with a history of substance use. Withdrawal symptoms can occur if stopped suddenly.

Does gabapentin cause weight gain?

Yes — weight gain is a common side effect through increased appetite and fluid retention.

Can I drink alcohol while taking gabapentin?

No — alcohol combined with gabapentin significantly increases sedation and can cause dangerous respiratory depression.

How long does it take for gabapentin to work for nerve pain?

Some relief may be felt within a week, but maximum benefit usually takes 2–4 weeks as the dose is adjusted.

Related medications

💊PregabalinAnticonvulsant / Neuropathic Pain Agent 💊AmitriptylineTricyclic Antidepressant (TCA)💊SertralineSSRI 💊TramadolOpioid Analgesic / SNRI

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This is an information resource — not medical advice.

🚨 If you are experiencing a medical emergency or think you may have taken too much of a medication, call emergency services (911 in the US) or go to your nearest emergency room immediately.

Information on this page is sourced from general pharmaceutical references and is provided for educational purposes only. Drug information may change — always verify with your pharmacist or prescriber. PillCodex.com is not affiliated with any pharmaceutical company.