Neurotin (Gabapentin) for Chronic Pain

Overview
Neurontin is a prescription drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat postherpetic neuralgia and some types of seizures. Neurontin is also referred to by its drug name, Gabapentin.

Neurontin is an anticonvulsant, or drug that controls seizures. Neurontin is believed to work on certain types of pain by reducing pain signals sent by damaged nerves.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Neurontin should be taken three times a day.

Neurontin comes in tablet, capsule, and liquid solution forms.

Side effects
The FDA-approved label for Neurontin lists common side effects including sleepiness, dizziness, and peripheral edema (swelling in the hands and feet).

Rare but serious side effects listed for Neurontin include worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, and severe hypersensitivity reactions.