Gabapentin Flashcards
Another name for Gabapentin
Neurontin
Class of drug for Gabapentin
Antiepileptic
Prevents seizures
Main indicators for Gabapentin
Seizures
Restless leg syndrome
Neuralgia (Nerve Pain)
Off label indicator
Anxiety
Alcoholism Withdrawal
“Good for MH patients with neuropathy.”
How does Gabapentin work:
It blocks voltage gated calcium channels
Main side effects
SEDATION
dizziness
Ataxia - involuntary coordination
fatigue
Ask about bilateral EDEMA
What organ to monitor with the use of Gabapentin
Kidney
You can still give even with Abnormal Kidney function
You may have to increase dosage after Hemodialysis
Minimal effective dosage for Gabapentin
300 mg/TID
Dosage for Seizures
300 mg/TID
You can start initially
How to titrate generally
Day 1: 300 mg/ QD
Day 2: 300 mg/BID
Day 3: 300 mg/TID
Dosage for insomnia or nightmares
300 - 600 mg/ HS
Usual maximum dosage
300 mg/ TID
Biggest risk factor (s) of Gabapentin usage
Diversion
Abuse
Respiratory Distress
Taper?
Yes
Over one week
Habit forming
No