How to use Gabapentin? ( Neurontin, Horizant) - Doctor Explains

In this video we will cover everything you need to know about Gabapentin, also known as Neurotin or Horizant. This video is part of a video series on mental health problems. So for more mental health related videos check out this playlist:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLaG3Bo3L0gX6Q9c7x0nRJ9sN_8pR8BB6m

Generic name: Gabapentin.
Brand names: Neurontin or Horizant.
Available as a capsule and as a tablet.

How to use it?
Make sure to swallow the capsule or tablet whole with half a glass of water.
In addition, it is recommended to take gabapentin at fixed times. This will make it less likely that you forget a dose.
Furthermore, after a few days to months your doctor will evaluate if gabapentin is sufficiently effective for you. If necessary your doctor will adapt your dose or will switch to another drug.

When to use it?
Gabapentin is part of a group of drugs called anti-epileptic drugs. However it can be used to treat several medical conditions, like:
- Epilepsy
- Neuropathic pain

What is the correct dosage?
The precise dose will depend on your specific indication of use, the side effect you might experience and the severity of your symptoms.Therefore always use the precise amount and frequency your doctor prescribed you.

- Most commonly your doctor will slowly increase your dose, up to a maintenance dose of 900-3600mg per day divided over 3 dosages. Therefore always use the precise amount and frequency your doctor prescribed you.
What are common the side-effects?
- Very common (10%): somnolence, dizziness, fatigue, increased risk for viral infections and fever.
- Common (1-10%): pneumonia, infections, aggression, fatigue, confusion, anxiety, depression, weight gain, appetite increase, amnesia, headache, insomnia, tremor, convulsions, altered reflexes, high blood pressure, cough, rash, itching, muscle and back pain, muscle twitching and erectile dysfunction.
- Uncommon (0.1-1%): allergic reactions, high blood sugar, agitation, palpitations, swallowing disorder and oedema.
- Rare (0.1%): palpitations, low blood sugar, loss of consciousness and respiratory depression.

Safety:
First of all be careful to combine gabapentin with alcohol. As this might increase its side effects.
In addition, it can be dangerous to drive while using this drug. As it can cause you to become drowsy, sleepy and/or dizzy. If you experiencing any of these side effects then please do not drive.
Furthermore, gabapentin can have interactions with other drugs your are taking. always discuss this with your prescribing doctor.

Pregnancy and Lactation:
There is insufficient data to conclude if gabapentin is dangerous. However it seems to be dangerous in animal studies.

- Disclaimer: this video and the comments are meant purely informational! This is not medical advice! If you are looking for medical advice always contact your own doctor. -

I want to give special thanks to my sponsors on Patreon:
- Sebastian Houwing: Investor

Literature:
1: Farmacotherapeutisch Kompas. (2021). Gabapentine.
2: Apotheek.nl (2021). Gabapentine.

* The images in this video are used for educational purposes only. Most of the images and videos in this video come from https://www.canva.com/.

Music:
1. Verified Picasso, Fish Room
2. Patrick Patrikos, Good Times
3: Patrick Patrikios, Rockville
4: Patrick Patrikios, Grut

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