Neurontin is the brand name for gabapentin, a drug used to treat epilepsy and some types of pain. Most people taking Neurontin will not have any serious side effects, but Neurontin, like any other drug, can cause severe complications, some of which can be life threatening. Letting medical personnel know if you experience any change in physical or mental status is essential when taking this drug.
Psychological Complications
People taking Neurontin to treat or prevent epileptic seizures are twice as likely to attempt suicide or to have suicidal thoughts, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported in 2008. Other changes in mental status reported during clinical trials include hostile thinking, reported by 7.6 percent and mood instability, reported in 4.2 percent, Drugs.com reports.
Central Nervous System Complications
Common central nervous system (CNS) complaints in people taking Neurontin include sleepiness, reported by 21 percent, dizziness, in up to 28 percent, coordination issues, in 12 percent, and abnormal eye movements, found in 8 percent, according to eMedTV. Less common side effects, reported by between 1 and 7 percent, included memory loss, difficulty concentrating and thinking clearly, hyperactivity in children, twitching, tremors, headache and vision problems such as double vision, dim vision or blurred vision.
Gastrointestinal Complications
Neurontin, like many drugs, can affect the gastrointestinal tract. The most common GI symptoms are nausea and vomiting, reported by up to 8.4 percent. Symptoms reported less than 7 percent of the time include dry mouth, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, heartburn, gas and weight loss or weight gain. Fluid retention in the extremities, which occurs in up to 8 percent of cases, according to eMedTV, may account for some reports of weight gain.
Other Complications
Other possible complications reported in 1 to 7 percent of people taking Neurontin include back pain, sore throat, high blood sugar, rash, hot flashes or flushing, and ear infections.
Allergic Reactions
Neurontin, like any prescription or over-the-counter drug, can cause severe allergic reaction in susceptible people. Signs of severe allergic reaction requiring immediate medical attention include hives, facial swelling, difficulty breathing or shortness of breath and severe itching. Less emergent signs of allergy include rash and mild itching. In any type of allergic reaction, contact your medical practitioner.
