Medicine Information

Gabapen

Name: Gabapen
Brand: Gabapen
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

Tablet100 mgAnticonvulsants / Neuropathic PainATC: N03AX12

Generic Name

Gabapentin

Manufacturer

Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Country

Bangladesh

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
gabapen 100 mg tablet	৳ 6.00	৳ 60.00

Description

Overview of the medicine

Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant and neuropathic pain agent. It is used to treat partial seizures and neuropathic pain conditions like postherpetic neuralgia.

Uses & Indications

Adjunctive therapy for partial seizures with or without secondary generalization in adults and children ≥ 12 years of age.

Management of postherpetic neuralgia in adults.

Off-label uses include diabetic neuropathy and restless legs syndrome.

Dosage

Adults

For partial seizures: Initial dose 300 mg three times daily, titrated up to 900-1800 mg/day. For postherpetic neuralgia: Initial dose 300 mg on Day 1, then 300 mg twice daily on Day 2, and 300 mg three times daily on Day 3, then titrated up to 1800 mg/day.

Elderly

Lower starting doses and slower titration recommended due to potential for decreased renal function.

Renal_impairment

Dose adjustment is required based on creatinine clearance (e.g., CrCl 30-59 mL/min: 200-700 mg twice daily; CrCl 15-29 mL/min: 200-700 mg once daily).

How to Take

Gabapen tablets should be taken orally with or without food. For effective seizure control, doses should be evenly spaced.

Mechanism of Action

Gabapentin binds with high affinity to the α2δ subunit of voltage-dependent calcium channels in the central nervous system, which is believed to reduce the release of excitatory neurotransmitters.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Anticonvulsant effects may be seen within days; neuropathic pain relief may take weeks for full effect.

Excretion

Excreted unchanged by the kidneys. Renal clearance is directly proportional to creatinine clearance.

Half life

5 to 7 hours in individuals with normal renal function.

Absorption

Oral absorption is dose-dependent and saturable, with bioavailability decreasing with increasing dose. Peak plasma concentrations are reached in 2-3 hours.

Metabolism

Not significantly metabolized in humans; does not induce hepatic enzymes.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to gabapentin or any of its components.

Drug Interactions

Morphine

Concomitant use with gabapentin can increase gabapentin concentrations, leading to increased CNS depression. Dose reduction of gabapentin may be necessary.

Hydrocodone

Increases gabapentin AUC and Cmax. Monitor for increased CNS depression.

Antacids (containing aluminum and magnesium)

May decrease gabapentin bioavailability by approximately 20%. Take gabapentin at least 2 hours after antacid administration.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose include dizziness, somnolence, blurred vision, slurred speech, lethargy, and mild diarrhea. Management is primarily supportive; hemodialysis can remove gabapentin.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category C. Should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Gabapentin is excreted in human milk; use with caution in nursing mothers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

10 tablets per blister strip30 tablets per box

Shelf Life

24 months from manufacturing date.

Availability

Pharmacies, Hospitals

Approval Status

Approved

Patent Status

Expired

WHO Essential Medicine

Yes

Clinical Trials

Gabapentin has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials for its efficacy in epilepsy, postherpetic neuralgia, and other neuropathic pain conditions. Research continues for potential new indications.

Lab Monitoring

Monitoring of renal function (creatinine clearance) is important, especially in elderly patients or those with pre-existing kidney impairment.

Doctor Notes

Counsel patients on the risk of CNS depression (drowsiness, dizziness) and advise against driving or operating machinery until they are aware of the drug's effects.
Emphasize the importance of gradual withdrawal to avoid increased seizure frequency or withdrawal symptoms.
Monitor for signs of suicidal ideation, especially during initial therapy or dose changes.

Patient Guidelines

Do not stop taking Gabapen abruptly, as this may lead to withdrawal symptoms or increased seizure frequency.
Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants, as they may enhance drowsiness and dizziness.
Report any new or worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, or unusual changes in mood or behavior to your doctor immediately.

Missed Dose Advice

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double doses.

Driving Precautions

Gabapentin may cause dizziness, somnolence, and other CNS effects. Patients should be advised not to drive or operate complex machinery until they have gained sufficient experience with Gabapen to gauge whether it adversely affects their ability.

Lifestyle Advice

Maintain good sleep hygiene.
Engage in regular, moderate exercise if possible.
Avoid activities that require high mental alertness until you know how Gabapen affects you.