Gabapentin, or Neurontin, is a medication in a classification of drugs known as anti-convulsants. It is used for the treatment of epileptic seizures and nerve pain from herpes zoster and may be used under the supervision of a physician for the treatment of migraine. Gabapentin comes as a capsule, a tablet and an oral solution to take by mouth, according to Medline. There are side effects of Gabapentin that users should be aware of.
Dizziness and Drowsiness
Patients taking Gabapentin for migraine may experience dizziness and drowsiness. These symptoms may decrease over time as the body adjusts to Gabapentin. Patients should use extreme caution while driving or operating machinery if they experience dizziness and drowsiness from this medication. Users that experience severe dizziness and drowsiness should consult their health-care provider for further instruction. It may be a sign of something unrelated to Gabapentin that requires medical attention.
Alterations in Mood and Behavior
Some patients taking Gabapentin have experienced alterations in mood and behavior. Patients should call their doctor if they have any new or worsening symptoms such as mood or behavior changes, depression, anxiety or if they feel agitated, hostile, restless, hyperactive or have thoughts about suicide or hurting themselves, according to Drugs.com. Family members and close contacts of users should understand these side effects and watch for changes in mood and behavior.
Vomiting and Heartburn
Patients taking Gabapentin for migraine may experience vomiting and heartburn. Gastrointestinal symptoms may be reduced by taking Gabapentin with food or milk. Taking antacids within two hours of taking this medication may cause a decrease in the absorption of Gabapentin. Patients experiencing severe vomiting from this medication should seek medical attention. Left untreated, vomiting may lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, which may be dangerous.
Flu-like Symptoms
Gabapentin may lead to the development of a flu-like illness. According to Medline Plus, symptoms can include fever, runny nose, sneezing, cough, ear pain, sore throat and red itchy eyes. These symptoms may be temporary until the body adjusts to Gabapentin. Natural remedies to treat flu-like symptoms include humidified air, saline nasal wash or spray, throat lozenges and mentholated chest rub. Patients may ask their health-care provider if the use of an over-the-counter pain reliever, decongestant or antihistamine would be considered safe to use for the treatment of flu-like symptoms.
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