Gabapentin: sleepiness, daily use and breathing safety
This guide is here to teach you. It is not medical advice, and it does not replace your doctor or pharmacist. Always do what your doctor tells you, and ask a pharmacist before you change how you take any medicine.
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What is gabapentin used for?
Immediate-release gabapentin treats pain after shingles and helps control certain seizures with other medicines. Ask why it was prescribed for you.
Can it make me sleepy?
Yes. Dizziness and sleepiness can affect driving and balance. Wait until you know its effects before driving or operating equipment.
Can I stop when I feel better?
Do not stop suddenly. Your prescriber may need to lower the dose gradually; abrupt stopping can cause problems, including more seizures.
Source: MedlinePlus gabapentin.
How should I take it?
Follow the times and amount on your label. Immediate-release and extended-release products do not share all food, timing or missed-dose instructions. Kidney function can affect the prescribed dose. Ask about aluminum- or magnesium-containing antacids; immediate-release gabapentin is generally taken at least two hours after them. MedlinePlus
What if I miss an immediate-release dose?
Take it when remembered unless the next dose is almost due; then skip it. Do not double the dose. Ask your pharmacist if several doses were missed or your seizure schedule is disrupted. MedlinePlus
What is the breathing warning?
Gabapentin can cause serious breathing problems, particularly with opioids or other sedating medicines, in people with reduced lung function, and in older adults. Tell your pharmacist about sleep aids, anxiety medicines, pain medicines and alcohol. Do not add sedating products without checking. FDA safety communication
When should someone get emergency help?
Call 911 for slow or difficult breathing, blue lips, extreme sleepiness or inability to wake the person. Caregivers should know these signs. FDA safety communication
Report new mood changes or thoughts of self-harm promptly. Seek urgent help for a severe rash, facial swelling or trouble breathing. MedlinePlus
Ask a Fairview pharmacist
Ask a Fairview pharmacist about your medicine list or request a transfer. Prescriptions are handled through the pharmacy, not the OTC shop. This is general education.