Gabapentin capsules, tablets, and oral solution are used along with other medications to help control certain types of seizures in people who have epilepsy. Gabapentin capsules, tablets, and oral solution are also used to relieve the pain of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN; the burning, stabbing pain or aches that may last for months or years after an attack of shingles).
Gabapentin extended-release tablets (Horizant) are used to treat restless legs syndrome (RLS; a condition that causes discomfort in the legs and a strong urge to move the legs, especially at night and when sitting or lying down). Gabapentin is in a class of medications called anticonvulsants. Gabapentin treats seizures by decreasing abnormal excitement in the brain. Gabapentin relieves the pain of PHN by changing the way the body senses pain. It is not known exactly how gabapentin works to treat restless legs syndrome.
Upsides of Taking Gabapentin
- May be used in addition to other medication to reduce seizure frequency in adults and children aged three and older with partial-onset seizures.
- May be used in the management of postherpetic neuralgia (persistent nerve pain following Shingles infection) in adults.
- Gabapentin enacarbil (brand name Horizant) may be used to relieve restless legs syndrome (RLS) or nerve pain associated with postherpetic neuralgia. Horizant is a long-acting prodrug of gabapentin that only requires once-daily dosing. It is usually taken once daily around 5 pm.
- Gabapentin is available as a generic; however, not all generics are interchangeable with some branded versions of gabapentin.
- Gabapentin may be used off-label (this means for an indication that has not been approved by the FDA but may still have a place in therapy) for some other indications such as fibromyalgia, persistent hiccups, migraine prevention, and hot flashes. Different brand names and formulations of gabapentin are available, each with specific uses and dosing instructions.
- Neurontin: Treats pain from shingles (postherpetic neuralgia) and, when combined with other seizure medications, treats partial-onset seizures in adults and children over 3 years old.
- Gralise: Specifically for postherpetic neuralgia (pain after shingles) and should not be used for any other conditions.
- Horizant: An extended-release tablet for restless legs syndrome and postherpetic neuralgia.
- Generic gabapentin capsules: Postherpetic neuralgia and as an additional therapy for partial-onset seizures in adults and children over 3 years old.