Medicine Information

Gabatec

Name: Gabatec
Brand: Gabatec

Capsule50 mgAnticonvulsant; Neuropathic Pain AgentATC: N03AX12

Generic Name

Gabapentin

Manufacturer

Opsonin Pharma Limited

Country

Bangladesh

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
gabatec 50 mg capsule	৳ 13.00	৳ 130.00

Description

Overview of the medicine

Gabatec 50 mg capsule contains Gabapentin, an anticonvulsant and neuropathic pain agent. It is primarily used to manage certain types of seizures (partial seizures) and relieve neuropathic pain, such as postherpetic neuralgia.

Uses & Indications

Adjunctive therapy in the treatment of partial seizures with or without secondary generalization in adults and children 3 years of age and older with epilepsy.

Management of postherpetic neuralgia in adults.

Neuropathic pain of other origins (off-label).

Restless legs syndrome (off-label).

Dosage

Adults

For Epilepsy/Neuropathic Pain: Initial dose typically 100-300 mg three times daily, titrated gradually based on response and tolerability. Gabatec 50 mg capsules are suitable for very slow titration or sensitive patients. Maintenance doses typically range from 900-3600 mg/day, divided into 3 doses.

Elderly

Dosage should be adjusted based on renal function. Start with lower doses and titrate carefully.

Renal_impairment

Dosage adjustment is required: CrCl ≥60 mL/min: 300 mg three times daily. CrCl 30-59 mL/min: 300 mg twice daily. CrCl 15-29 mL/min: 300 mg once daily. CrCl <15 mL/min: 300 mg every other day. Hemodialysis: Supplementary doses after dialysis.

How to Take

Take orally with or without food. Swallow capsules whole with water. If reducing dose or discontinuing, taper gradually over at least 1 week to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

Mechanism of Action

Gabapentin's exact mechanism is not fully understood. It is structurally related to GABA but does not bind to GABA_A or GABA_B receptors, nor does it inhibit GABA uptake or degradation. Its primary mechanism is thought to involve binding to the alpha-2-delta subunit of voltage-gated calcium channels in the central nervous system, which reduces the release of excitatory neurotransmitters. This action contributes to its anticonvulsant and analgesic effects.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

For neuropathic pain, relief may begin within a week; for seizures, onset is gradual with titration.

Excretion

Excreted unchanged in the urine.

Half life

Approximately 5-7 hours in adults with normal renal function.

Absorption

Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract; absorption is dose-dependent and saturable at higher doses. Bioavailability is about 60% at 300 mg, decreasing to 35% at 1600 mg.

Metabolism

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

Side Effects

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to gabapentin or any component of the formulation.

Drug Interactions

Antacids

May decrease gabapentin bioavailability. Separate administration by at least 2 hours.

Opioids (e.g., Morphine)

May increase gabapentin concentrations and increase CNS depression. Monitor for sedation.

CNS Depressants (e.g., alcohol, benzodiazepines)

Additive CNS depressant effects. Avoid concomitant use or use with caution.

Storage

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

Overdose

Symptoms: Dizziness, double vision, slurred speech, drowsiness, lethargy, mild diarrhea. Management: Supportive care. Gabapentin can be removed by hemodialysis.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy: Category C. Use only if potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Lactation: Gabapentin is excreted in breast milk. Caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to gabapentin or any component of the formulation.

Drug Interactions

Antacids

May decrease gabapentin bioavailability. Separate administration by at least 2 hours.

Opioids (e.g., Morphine)

May increase gabapentin concentrations and increase CNS depression. Monitor for sedation.

CNS Depressants (e.g., alcohol, benzodiazepines)

Additive CNS depressant effects. Avoid concomitant use or use with caution.

Storage

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

Overdose

Symptoms: Dizziness, double vision, slurred speech, drowsiness, lethargy, mild diarrhea. Management: Supportive care. Gabapentin can be removed by hemodialysis.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

10 capsules20 capsules30 capsules

Shelf Life

Usually 2-3 years, check specific packaging.

Availability

Pharmacies, Hospitals

Approval Status

Approved

Patent Status

Off-patent

WHO Essential Medicine

Yes

Clinical Trials

Extensive clinical trials have established gabapentin's efficacy and safety for its approved indications. Ongoing research explores its use in other conditions.

Lab Monitoring

Monitor renal function, especially in elderly and those with kidney impairment.
Observe for changes in mood or behavior, including suicidal ideation.

Doctor Notes

Careful titration is crucial to minimize side effects and optimize efficacy.
Monitor for signs of suicidal ideation, especially at the beginning of treatment or dose changes.
Renal dose adjustment is mandatory.

Patient Guidelines

Do not stop taking Gabatec suddenly as it may cause withdrawal symptoms or increase seizure frequency.
Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medicine affects you, as it can cause dizziness and drowsiness.
Report any unusual changes in mood or behavior to your doctor.
Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

Missed Dose Advice

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

Driving Precautions

May cause dizziness, drowsiness, and impaired coordination. Patients should be advised to avoid driving or operating machinery until they are certain that gabapentin does not adversely affect their ability to engage in such activities.