Gabapentin 400mg

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Gabapentin, marketed under the brand name Neurontin among others, is an anticonvulsant medication primarily utilized for treating neuropathic pain and partial seizures associated with epilepsy. It is frequently prescribed for neuropathic pain resulting from conditions such as diabetic neuropathy, postherpetic neuralgia, and central pain. The medication demonstrates moderate effectiveness, with approximately 30–40% of patients experiencing significant relief from diabetic neuropathy or postherpetic neuralgia.

Mechanism of Action

Gabapentin, like other gabapentinoid drugs, functions by decreasing the activity of the α2δ-1 protein, which is encoded by the CACNA2D1 gene and is known as an auxiliary subunit of voltage-gated calcium channels. By binding to α2δ-1, gabapentin reduces the release of excitatory neurotransmitters, primarily glutamate, thereby diminishing excessive neuronal excitation in the spinal cord and brain.

Side Effects and Precautions

The most common side effects of gabapentin include sleepiness and dizziness. More serious side effects can occur, such as respiratory depression and allergic reactions. As with all antiepileptic drugs approved by the FDA, gabapentin carries a warning for an increased risk of suicide. It is important to note that lower doses are recommended for individuals with kidney disease.

History and Usage

Gabapentin was first approved for use in the United Kingdom in 1993 and has been available as a generic medication in the United States since 2004. It is the first in a class of drugs known as gabapentinoids, which share similar structures and mechanisms. In 2022, gabapentin was the tenth most commonly prescribed medication in the United States, with over 40 million prescriptions issued.

Please consult your doctor before use.

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Gabapentin 400mg stock last updated at: April 2025