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Neurontin Side Effects
Neurontin (generic name, Gabapentin) is commonly prescribed for: (1)
for the treatment of partial seizures (the type in which symptoms are limited).
It can be used whether or not the seizures eventually become general and result
in loss of consciousness and (2) for relief of the burning nerve pain that
sometimes persists for months or even years after an attack of shingles (herpes
zoster).
Common Neurontin Side Effects
Side effects cannot always be predicted for each individual, however some
of the more common Neurontin side effects when it is taken for epilepsy include
- blurred, dimmed, or double vision, bronchitis (in children), dizziness,
drowsiness, fatigue, fever (in children), involuntary eye movement, itchy,
runny nose, lack of muscular coordination, nausea, tremor, viral infection
(in children), vomiting, weight increase (in children). Some of the more common
Neurontin side effects when it is taken for nerve pain include - diarrhea,
dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, accidental injury, constipation, headache,
infection, lack of muscular coordination, vomiting, weakness, nausea, swelling
in arms and legs.
A wide variety of uncommon and rare side effects have also been reported by
users of this prescription drug. If you develop any new or unusual symptoms
while taking Neurontin, be sure to let your doctor know. Additionally, it
is quite possible for side effects other than those listed here to occur.
If this happens and/or if any seem particularly strange or bothersome, contact
a doctor.
Special Neurontin Precautions
Neurontin should be taken prescisely as directed by your doctor. To effectively
control your seizures, it is important that you take it three times a day,
approximately every eight hours. You should not go longer than 12 hours without
a dose of this medication.
You should not take Neurontin if you have ever had an allergic reaction to
it.
Neurontin causes some people to become drowsy and less alert. Combining it
with morphine makes this even more likely. You should not drive or operate
dangerous machinery or participate in any hazardous activity that requires
full mental alertness, until you are certain Neurontin does not have this
effect on you.
In children, Neurontin occasionally triggers behavioral problems such as unstable
hostility, aggression, hyperactivity, emotions, and lack of concentration.
However, such problems (if they occur) tend to be mild.
Be sure also to let your doctor know if you have any kidney problems or are
on hemodialysis, as your doctor will need to adjust your dosage of Neurontin
to account for this.
If Neurontin is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could
be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with
your doctor before combining Neurontin with any of the following drugs - Antacids
such as Maalox; Hydrocodone (Lortab, Vicodin); Naproxen (Naprosyn); Morphine
(Kadian, MS Contin). Also let your doctor know of all other prescription and
non-prescription drugs that you are currently taking.
The effects of Neurontin on pregnant women have not been adequately studied.
It has been noted however that birth defects have occurred in babies whose
mothers took an antiepileptic medication while they were pregnant. The drug
should be used during pregnancy only if it is clearly needed. If you are pregnant
or plan to become pregnant, let your doctor know immediately. Also, this medication
may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. It should be
used by mothers who nurse their babies only if its benefits clearly outweigh
the risks.
Warning: This information is intended to
supplement, not be a substitute for the expertise and judgment of
a doctor. Please consult a doctor for final and more detailed information
about the possible side effects of this prescription medication.
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