medypharmasist
Gabapentin
is used as an anticonvulsant in patients with epilepsy, and can reduce the frequency
of seizures. It is also often prescribed as a treatment for nerve pain, such as
in diabetic neuropathy and trigeminal neuralgia.
This drug is not recommended for use during
pregnancy, as it may cause harm to the unborn baby. However, if a woman becomes
pregnant while taking gabapentin to treat seizures, she should tell her doctor
right away. It is important that she is closely monitored for any signs of
pregnancy, such as vaginal bleeding, nausea, or vomiting.
Several studies have shown that this drug can be
effective in controlling seizures. One placebo -controlled study found that
1200 mg/day and 1800 mg/day gabapentin significantly reduced the rate of
refractory partial seizure compared to placebo. The results suggest a
dose-dependent effect, with higher doses being more effective.
Another
placebo-controlled study found that a combination of 1200 mg/day and 900 mg/day
gabapentin and 500 mg/day carbamazepine significantly reduced the frequency of
refractory seizures in patients with refractory partial epilepsy compared to
placebo and lower doses of these drugs. It is not clear whether gabapentin
alone is more effective than the combination, and these findings should be
interpreted cautiously.