Gabapentin: Side Effects, Uses, and Potential Risks

Gabapentin (brand names Gabarone, Neurontin) is a medication used in the treatment of seizures. It is classified as an anticonvulsant, and is effective in treating epilepsy. In addition to treating seizures, gabapentin is used to treat nerve pain.

Side Effects

• Side effects of gabapentin include increase in seizures, fever, body aches, chills, tremor, easy bruising, abnormal eye movements, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, headache, stuffy nose, runny nose and sore throat.

Extreme Side Effects

• Extreme side effects of gabapentin can include suicidal thoughts, agitation, depression, hyperactivity, hostility or anxiousness. If you experience any of these side effects, get immediate medical attention.

Children

• In children, certain side effects of gabapentin are seen more frequently, such as behavioral changes, aggressiveness, restlessness, hostile behavior, memory problems and difficulty concentrating.

Potential

• Never abruptly discontinue gabapentin treatment without consulting your doctor because of the potential for sudden seizure.

Benefits

• Gabapentin can significantly reduce the incidence of seizures and relieve the intense pain of post-herpetic neuralgia, which can occur following shingles.