Gabapentin (Neurontin) Drug Information





Gabapentin (Neurontin) and also known as Fanatrex, Gabarone, Gralise, Neurontin, Nupentin was originally developed by Pfizer pharmaceutical for the treatment of epilepsy, but is also used to relieve neuropathic pain. Although Neurontin is often prescribed off-label for mental health issues, numerous trials show it is not effective as a mood-stabilizing or bipolar treatment. In 2004, Pfizer, the world’s largest pharmaceutical company, plead guilty and paid more than $430 million in criminal fines and civil penalties for the illegal and fraudulent promotion of Neurontin for unauthorized uses.

Stanford University (Ben Barres and colleagues) in 2009 discovered that Gabapentin halts the formation of new synapses.

Neurontin is similar in structure to the neurotransmitter GABA and enhances the inhibitory (calming) action and therefore can cause a withdrawal syndrome similar to alcohol or benzodiazepines. It is essential to titrate using a gradual dose reduction to minimize the withdrawal symptoms.

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Neurontin Withdrawal Symptoms May Include:




Anxiety, Insomnia, Nausea, Pain, Sweating, Seizures, Trembling, Panic Attacks, Depression, Tinnitus.

Neurontin Side Effects May Include:

    Asthenia (loss of strength), edema, malaise, hypertension, hypotension, angina pectoris, peripheral vascular disorder, palpitation, tachycardia, migraine, murmur, anorexia, flatulence, gingivitis, increased salivation, gastroentereistis (gastric flu), hemorrhoids, bloody stools, fecal incontinence, hyperthyroid, hypthyroid, hypoestrogen, ovarian failure, pancreatitis, vertigo, anxiety, hostility, hyperkinesias (restlessness), decreased or absent reflexes, aphasia (loss of language skills), hypesthesia (diminished sensation), intracranial hemorrhage, low muscle tone, apathy, hallucination, decrease or loss of libido, agitation, paranoia, depersonalization, euphoria, feeling high, doped-up sensation, psychosis; pneumonia, alopecia, eczema, dry skin, increased sweating, urticaria, hirsutism, seborrhea, cyst, herpes simplex; urinary retention, urinary frequency, vaginal hemorrhage, breast cancer, unable to climax, abnormal vision, hearing loss.

    Disclaimer: *Because prescription medications can cause severe withdrawal reactions, do not stop taking any medication without first consulting your physician. The decision to taper any medication should be discussed with your doctor and done with their consent and support. More...