Basics
What is the trade name for gabapentin?
Neurontin
What is the typical dosing frequency?
TID
A common CNS side effect is
Dizziness
Is it safe to drive when first starting gabapentin?
No, avoid until effects are known
Is gabapentin a controlled substance?
No (but monitored in some states)
What drug class is gabapentin?
Anticonvulsant
Neruontin is believed to increase which neruotransmitter?
GABA
What is a peripheral side effect when using gabapentin?
edema
Is it safe to drink alcohol when taking gabapentin?
No, causes additive sedation
What are some off label uses?
anxiety, RLS, migraine prevention
What is the primary route of administration?
PO
Does gabapentin treat acute pain?
No
Should gabapentin be tapered when discontinuing? Why?
yes, prevent seizures and withdrawal
Should gabapentin be taken with or without food?
either
What is the antidote?
NONE
What is gabapentin primarily used to treat?
Neuropathic pain and seizures
A patient reports severe dizziness, what is the priority action?
Institute fall precautions
When combined with opioids the chances of what increase?
CNS/respiratory depression
Why should caution be used with the elderly?
falls
Gabapentin is eliminated by which organ?
Kidneys
The best time to take gabapentin for neuropathic pain is?
consistently, around the clock (TID)
Gabapentin should be used cautiously in patients with what organ impairment?
Kidney/renal
What are signs of overdose?
slurred speech, sedation
What is a major concern with patients in renal impairment, taking gabapentin?
toxicity
What are common mobility risk associated with gabapentin?
Ataxia/falls