What it does
Gabapectin is a medication often used to help manage nerve pain and seizures.
Commonly used for: nerve pain (neuropathic pain), seizures (epilepsy)
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Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-01-28 21:31:52 · updated 2026-07-20 11:06:01
About this medicine
Gabapectin is a medication often used to help manage nerve pain and seizures.
What it treats
- nerve pain (neuropathic pain)
- seizures (epilepsy)
How it works
Gabapectin works by calming the nerves and reducing abnormal electrical activity in the brain.
Who it's for
It is for adults and children who experience nerve pain or have certain types of seizures.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: gabapectin
Gabapentin is a medication primarily used to treat neuropathic pain and as an adjunct therapy for partial seizures. It is a structural analogue of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) but does not bind to GABA receptors. Gabapentin is also utilized for conditions such as restless legs syndrome and fibromyalgia.
Indications
- Neuropathic pain
- Partial seizures in epilepsy
- Restless legs syndrome
- Fibromyalgia
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for appropriate dosing information based on specific clinical indications.
Adults: Refer to the BNF for appropriate dosing information based on specific clinical indications.
Mechanism of action
Gabapentin binds to the alpha-2-delta subunit of voltage-gated calcium channels in the central nervous system. This binding reduces the release of excitatory neurotransmitters, thereby inhibiting neuronal excitability and providing analgesic and anticonvulsant effects.
Pharmacodynamics
Gabapentin decreases neuronal excitability by modulating calcium channel activity, which leads to reduced neurotransmitter release. Its efficacy in neuropathic pain is thought to be due to its effect on the descending pain pathways and modulation of pain signaling in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord.
Pharmacokinetics
Gabapentin is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with a bioavailability that decreases as the dose increases. It is not extensively metabolized, and approximately 80% of a dose is excreted unchanged in the urine. The elimination half-life ranges from 5 to 7 hours, and dosing adjustments are required in individuals with renal impairment.
Adverse effects
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Drowsiness
- Ataxia
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Visual disturbances
- Peripheral edema
Interactions
- Antacids may reduce the absorption of gabapentin
- CNS depressants may increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression
Precautions
- Use cautiously in patients with renal impairment
- Monitor patients for signs of depression or suicidal thoughts
- Gradual withdrawal is recommended to avoid withdrawal symptoms
Pregnancy
Gabapentin should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Consult healthcare providers for personalized advice.
Breast-feeding
Gabapentin is excreted in breast milk, and caution is advised when administering to nursing mothers.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Capsules
- Tablets
- Oral solution
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.