Medicine & USMLE

Gabapentin

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Neuro Drugs
  1. Levodopa, Carbidopa
  2. Levetiracetam
  3. Valproic Acid
  4. Anticholinergic Syndrome
  5. Cholinergic Crisis
  6. Benztropine / Trihexyphenidyl
  7. Lidocaine
  8. Pyridostigmine, Neostigmine, Edrophonium
  9. Naltrexone
  10. Pregabalin
  11. Scopolamine
  12. Phenytoin
  13. Ethosuximide
  14. Succinylcholine
  15. Opioids
  16. Memantine
  17. Halothane / Flurane
  18. Donepezil
  19. Propofol
  20. Ergotamine
  21. Triptans
  22. Selegiline / Rasagiline
  23. Entacapone / Tolcapone
  24. Gabapentin
  25. Lamotrigine
  26. Carbamazepine
  27. Ramelteon

Summary

Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant medication that is used to treat seizures, but more commonly prescribed to treat peripheral neuropathy and other neuropathic pain. The biggest side effect of gabapentin is drowsiness and sedation.

Key Points

  • Gabapentin (Neurontin)
    • Mechanism
      • Drug class: Anticonvulsant/Antiseizure
        • Inhibits spontaneous neuron firing by inhibiting the calcium channels
    • Clinical Use
      • Neuropathic pain
        • Diabetic neuropathy
        • Postherpetic neuralgia (neuropathic pain following shingles)
      • Partial seizures
      • Migraine headaches
      • Bipolar disorder
      • Menopausal symptoms
    • Side Effects and Adverse Reactions
      • Sedation/Drowsiness
        • Closely monitor older adults, as the sedative effects may increase their risk for falls
        • Educate patients not to drive until they know how the medication effects them
      • Ataxia
      • Dizziness