Gabapentin 300 mg Side Effects
Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant medication used in the treatment of epileptic seizures 12. Gabapentin is also used to relieve the pain of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN; the burning, stabbing pain or aches that may last for months or years after an attack of shingles), reports Medline Plus 12. Gabaptentin comes in tablet, capsule and liquid formulations.
If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.
Harmful Thoughts and Depression
You may experience harmful thoughts while on Gabapentin 300 mg 12. Harmful thoughts may include suicidal thoughts. Depression may also occur as a result of Gabapentin 12. Tell your doctor if you have new or worsening depression or suicidal thoughts during the first several months of treatment, or whenever your dose is changed, states Drugs.com 2.
Headache and Dizziness
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You may experience headache and dizziness while taking Gabapentin 300 mg 12. These side effect may diminish over time as your body begins to adjust to Gabapentin 12. Use caution while driving or operating hazardous machinery until you know how this medication will affect you. Your headache may be relieved by taking an over-the-counter pain medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, as per your doctor's consent. If headache and dizziness become severe and begin to impact your daily lifestyle speak to your health care provider about Gabapentin 12.
Drowsiness and Weakness
Drowsiness and weakness are possible side effects of Gabapentin 12. You may seem more sleepy and fatigued than usual. Get an adequate amount of sleep each night and take a mid-day nap if possible to help you feel more awake throughout the day.
Nausea, Diarrhea and Constipation
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You may experience nausea, diarrhea and constipation while taking Gabapentin 300 mg. Heartburn can also occur 12. Small dietary changes may help alleviate gastrointestinal effects. Eating a bland diet which consists of smaller meals more frequently can improve nausea and diarrhea. Increasing fruits, vegetables and fiber intake may ease constipation. If dietary changes are unsuccessful, consider trying an over-the-counter stool softener such as Colace. Remaining in an upright position for at least 30 minutes following meals can help prevent heartburn.
- You may experience nausea, diarrhea and constipation while taking Gabapentin 300 mg. Increasing fruits, vegetables and fiber intake may ease constipation.
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References
- Medline Plus: Gabapentin
- Drugs.com: Gabapentin
- Food and Drug Administration. Horizant label. Updated December 2012.
- Food and Drug Administration. Gabapentin label. Updated April 2020.
- Goodman CW, Brett AS. A clinical overview of off-label use of gabapentinoid drugs. JAMA Intern Med. 2019;179(5):695-701. doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2019.0086
- Pauly NJ, Delcher C, Slavova S, Lindahl E, Talbert J, Freeman PR. Trends in gabapentin prescribing in a commercially insured U.S. adult population, 2009-2016. J Manag Care Spec Pharm. 2020;26(3):246-252. doi:10.18553/jmcp.2020.26.3.246
Writer Bio
Laura Candelaria is a family nurse practitioner and assistant professor of nursing and nutritional science. Her experience includes neonatal and pediatric intensive-care, women's oncology, gynecology, obstetrics, lactation, nutrition and infertility. She has been published in "Nursing Spectrum," "Newsday" and on various websites.