Gabapentin is a medication used to treat a wide variety of neurologic issues including pain and seizures. Gabapentin is structurally similar to GABA, a neurotransmitter. The mechanism of action of gabapentin is unknown, but may be related to calcium channels. Interestingly it is not thought to interfere with GABA receptors. Gabapentin is an oral medication taken three times a day at a dose between 300 mg and 1200 mg every eight hours.
Seizures
Gabapentin can be used as an adjunct medication for partial seizures and secondary generalized tonic-clonic seizures. According to "Lippincott's Illustrated Reviews: Pharmacology," gabapentin does not bind to plasma proteins, making it a good medication to be used along with other antiseizure medications. Partial seizures are limited to a specific brain area, while generalized tonic-clonic seizures are seizures involving the entire body.
Post-Herpetic Neuralgia
Post-herpetic neuralgia is a condition of the nerves and skin. It is a complication of shingles caused by the chicken pox virus. The pain that can occur after an episode of shingles once the rash has cleared is known as post-herpetic neuralgia, according to MayoClinic.com. Although the mechanism is unknown, gabapentin can improve the pain symptoms of post-herpetic neuralgia in patients, according to Epocrates.com.
Neuropathic Pain
Neuropathic pain results from damage to, or dysfunction of, the peripheral or central nervous system, rather than stimulation of pain receptors. Diabetic neuropathy and peripheral neuropathy are conditions that can lead to neuropathic pain symptoms of shooting and burning pain, tingling, and numbness. Gabapentin is often given to these patients and can be effective in decreasing the symptoms of pain, according to Epocrates.com.
References
- Epocrates: Gabapentin
- "Lippincott's Illustrated Reviews: Pharmacology"; Dr. Richard Howland and Dr. Mary Mycek; 2006.
- Mayoclinic.com: Post-herpetic Neuralgia
- Merck Manual: Neuropathic Pain
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