Gabapentin

Nerve pain

Also known as Neurontin, Gralise

Gabapentin quiets nerves that are firing when they shouldn't. Doctors prescribe it for nerve pain (like the burning pain after shingles or from diabetes) and for seizures. It builds up gradually — your doctor will likely start low and step the dose up, and it can take a few weeks to feel the full effect.

How to take it

When

Exactly as prescribed — often three times a day, spaced evenly. Don't rearrange doses on your own.

Food

With or without food.

Avoid

Alcohol and other things that make you drowsy — the combination hits harder than either alone. Keep antacids at least 2 hours away from your dose. And never stop suddenly; it must be tapered.

Driving

Until you know how it affects you, don't drive or operate machinery. Drowsiness and dizziness are common early on.

Missed a dose?

Take it as soon as you remember. If it's nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue. Don't take two doses together.

Common side effects

Drowsiness and dizziness — most common, especially at the start
Unsteadiness or clumsiness
Swelling in the legs or feet
Weight gain with longer use

Call a doctor if

Slow or shallow breathing, especially if you also take opioid painkillers — get help right away
New or worsening depression, or thoughts of self-harm
Rash with fever or swollen glands — a rare but serious reaction

Educational only. This summary is drawn from public FDA labeling and MedlinePlus and simplified for readability. Your prescription label and your pharmacist always come first — doses and instructions vary from person to person.