Neurontin is a brand name for gabapentin, according to Drugs.com. Gabapentin is also marketed under the name Gabarone, and is primarily prescribed as a treatment for seizures. However, the product also has common off-label uses, such as treating nerve pain, migraine and shingles. "Newsweek" reports that not all side effects of Neurontin have been fully disclosed. It is important to become aware of them as they are discovered.
Suicidal Thoughts and Behavior
According to the FDA, Neurontin is a part of a group of anti-epileptic drugs that required revised prescription warnings after patient reports additional side effects that were not featured in original studies of the drugs. Neurontin was approved by the FDA in 1993, but by 2008, a sufficient body of evidence had built up to suggest problems were occurring. The FDA notes that this is especially true for use over time, as short-term anti-epileptic drugs are excused from the warning. Those taking Neurontin will be well advised to follow the new FDA warnings about the hidden side effects and monitor their mental states carefully.
Shifts in Mental Health
A study featured on Drugs.com in conjunction with the suicide risks hidden in Neurontin also testified to the medication's ability to alter mental states. Patients who already had bi-polar disorder or another mental health issue found that their suicidal tendencies decrease, while other patients find that they have unusual thoughts and an increase in mental health issues, such as depression.
Accidental Overdose
According to Newsweek and Drugs.com, when Pfizer was the manufacturer of Neurontin, the studies supporting the original efficacy of the medication may have been manipulated. This caused higher dosages to become regular prescription habits for both official and off-label uses of the medication. As a result, patients are more susceptible to accidental overdoses of the medication, which are characterized by symptoms of headaches and dizziness. Drugs.com notes that of the original studies commissioned, not all were published, which had the effects of hiding some side effects of Neurontin.
