Gabapentin is a prescription medication used for a variety of purposes. Alli is an over-the-counter fat blocker used to help you lose weight. If you are currently taking gabapentin or any other medication, it is important to consult your physician or pharmacist prior to taking Alli to ensure that both medications are appropriate for your individual needs.
Gabapentin
Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant medication marketed under the trade names Neurontin, Horizant, Gabarone and Fanatrex. Gabapentin is most often used to treat epilepsy, postherpetic neuralgia, diabetic neuropathy and to prevent hot flashes women experiencing menopause or undergoing treatment for breast cancer. Typical dosage of gabapentin varies dependent upon its usage, but is typically taken two to four times per day. Because gabapentin can interact with a variety of medications -- most notably antacids, naproxen and hydrocodone -- it is essential you consult your physician or pharmacist prior to taking gabapentin with any other medications.
Alli
Alli is the trade name for the 60 mg dosage of orlistat. This medication is a lipase inhibitor. Alli prevents your body from absorbing some of the fat that you eat by blocking the enzyme lipase from breaking down fat for absorption. As a result, your body absorbs fewer calories than you actually consume. When paired with a balanced low fat diet and exercise, Alli may beneficial in your weight loss journey. Alli is taken approximately 30 minutes prior to a low fat meal up to three times per day.
Alli and Gabapentin
Alli and gabapentin are not contraindicated by one another. However, you should wait at least two hours after taking Alli to administer gabapentin to ensure that your body fully absorbs both medications. Taking Alli and gabapentin too close together may cause your body to only partially absorb your gabapentin, according to "Focus on Nursing Pharmacology." This is especially dangerous for people taking gabapentin to manage epilepsy.
Considerations
Timing the administration of your gabapentin and Alli may prove to be difficult. If taking Alli 30 minutes prior to each low fat meal becomes challenging or impossible for you to execute, speak with your doctor about reducing the frequency of which you administer Alli. For example, you and your doctor may decide that taking Alli only prior to dinner is suitable for your schedule and personal needs.
References
- "Focus on Nursing Pharmacology"; Amy Morrison Karch; 2009
- "Davis' Drug Guide for Nurses"; Judi Deglin, et al.; 2010
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