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Introduction to Neurontin: Basic

Topics List
New comprehensive downloadable medication sheet
  • Additional information on this drug and how to use it.
  • A starting point for discussion with your doctor.
  • Answers to frequently asked questions.

Neurontin (nur-ON-tin) is a brand name used in the United States, Canada, the UK, and some other countries for a type of medicine called gabapentin (gab-ah-PEN-tin).

Forms
Neurontin is sold in the United States by Pfizer Inc. The name or appearance may be different in various countries but usually the dose (measured in milligrams, abbreviated "mg") will be the same. These descriptions apply to the U.S. versions:

Capsules

100-mg (white, hard-gelatin)
Capsules with "PD" on one half and "Neurontin 100 mg" on the other.
300-mg (yellow, hard-gelatin)
Capsules with "PD" on one half and "Neurontin 300 mg" on the other.
400-mg (orange, hard-gelatin)
Capsules with "PD" on one half and "Neurontin 400 mg" on the other.

Tablets
600-mg (white, oval, coated)
Scored tablet marked with "NT" and "16" on one side

800-mg (white, oval, coated)
Scored tablet marked with "NT" and "26" on one side

Oral solution
250 mg/5 mL (clear, colorless to slightly yellow)
Liquid with strawberry-anise flavor.

Neurontin is not available in a generic (non–brand name) form.

How to take and store Neurontin
Follow the doctor's directions. Call if you have any questions. The way the medicine is taken depends, of course, on what form the doctor has prescribed.

Swallow the capsules or tablets whole. If you are using the liquid form, be sure to use the same standard measuring spoon each time so the dose will be accurate.

It's OK to take Neurontin either with food or without food, but it’s best to be consistent day after day.

Don't take an antacid (like Maalox) within 2 hours of taking Neurontin. Antacids can prevent your body from absorbing all the Neurontin.

As the doctor increases the amount of Neurontin that you take, you may be given a different kind of pill than the ones you've been taking. Be careful! For example, if you've been using 300-mg capsules and the new prescription is for 600-mg tablets, be sure to take the right number. Don't automatically continue to take the same number of pills as before.

Don't take more than the doctor prescribes. If you think you've used an extra pill or one extra spoonful of liquid, call your doctor for advice. For a larger overdose, call your local poison control center or emergency room right away, unless you have special instructions from the doctor.

Don't stop taking Neurontin or change the amount you use without talking to the doctor first. Stopping any seizure medicine all at once can cause serious problems.

Store the capsules or tablets at room temperature, away from dampness and direct light. (Don't keep them in the bathroom if it's damp there.) Keep the liquid form of Neurontin in the refrigerator. Of course, keep all Neurontin out of the reach of children.

What if I forget?
In general, if you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, delay that dose for a few hours, instead of taking two doses very close together. Then go back to the regular schedule. If you're not sure about what to do, call the doctor's office for more advice.

Do your best to follow the doctor's directions. The more often a medicine must be taken, the greater the chance of forgetting, and most people need to take Neurontin 3 times every day. This can be difficult. If you forget doses often, it may be a good idea to get a special pillbox or watch with an alarm to remind you.

Taking the right amount of seizure medicine on time every single day is the most important step in preventing seizures!


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