Neurontin (NUR-on-tin)

Neurontin (gabapentin [GAB-a-PEN-tin]) is an anticonvulsant/antiepileptic medication that may be used to treat neuropathic pain conditions associated with prostatitis.

Neurontin Warnings

Neurontin and other antiepileptic drugs increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior.

If you are taking Neurontin for prostatitis or any other condition, your doctor should monitor you carefully for signs of suicidal thoughts or behavior, any unusual changes in mood, or worsening depression.

Administration of Neurontin and other antiepileptic drugs should not be stopped suddenly.

You should be aware that there are several side effects associated with gabapentinoids like Neurontin including causing brain decline by blocking the formation of new brain synapses. Side effects can include dizziness, tiredness, and can make it harder to concentrate, among many other potential side effects.

Why Is Neurontin Prescribed for Prostatitis?

This medication may be used to treat neuropathic pain conditions; therefore, it is considered a potential treatment for chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS).

How Should Neurontin Be Used?

This medication comes in the following forms:

Capsule
Tablet
Extended-release tablet
Oral solution (liquid)

Take this medication with an 8-ounce glass of water, usually three times daily, evenly spaced throughout the day.

Follow your doctor’s instructions about using Neurontin. Check the medication’s label for dosing instructions.

Read the extra patient information sheet that comes with your prescription of Neurontin.

If your dose is a half-scored tablet, take the other half of the same tablet as your next dose. Discard any unused half-tablets within several days.

Do not stop taking Neurontin suddenly. If taking the medication to prevent seizures, stopping Neurontin abruptly could increase the risk of seizures. Your physician will lower your dose gradually if you need to stop taking it.

Other Uses for Neurontin

Neurontin is used to prevent and control certain types of seizures associated with epilepsy. It may also be used to treat restless legs syndrome and to control nerve pain caused by shingles. It may be prescribed to control nerve pain caused by other conditions as well.

Do I Need to Follow Special Precautions?

Tell your doctor if you are allergic to gabapentin or gabapentin enacarbil before taking this medication. Discuss any other allergies with your physician as well.

Inactive ingredients in this medication may cause allergic reactions.

Inform your doctor of the following conditions related to your medical history before taking this medication:

Kidney disease
History of depression or suicidal thoughts
History of drug or alcohol abuse

Do not drive, operate machinery, or perform any activity that requires alertness or clear vision without being certain how your body reacts to this medication; it may make you drowsy or dizzy, or may cause blurred vision.

Limit the amount of alcoholic beverages you drink while taking this medication.

Inform your doctor about any prescription and nonprescription products you use before having any surgeries.

The elderly may be more prone to side effects while taking this medication, in particular swelling of the hands, ankles, or feet.

Do not take an antacid that contains aluminum or magnesium within two hours before taking this medication.

Do I Need to Follow a Special Diet When Taking Neurontin?

Take Neurontin with or without food. Unless directed by your doctor, continue your normal diet. Take this medication with a full 8-ounce glass of water.

What If I Forget a Dose?

If you miss a dose of Neurontin, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is nearing the time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take extra Neurontin to account for the missed dose.

Are There Side Effects When Taking Neurontin for Prostatitis?

If any of these side effects continue or worsen while taking Neurontin (gabapentin) for prostatitis, inform your doctor immediately:

Drowsiness/tiredness
Dizziness
Loss of coordination
Blurred vision
Unusual eye movements
Shaking
Swelling in hands, ankles, or feet
Unusual Fever
Cough
Sore throat
Any other signs of infection
Depression
Suicidal thoughts or attempts
Other mood changes
Swollen glands
Yellowing of skin or eyes
Dark urine
Changes in the amount of urine
Chest pain
Back/joint pain

Seek medical attention promptly if you experience an allergic reaction, which is rare. Signs of a severe allergic reaction include:

Rash
Itching/swelling of the face, tongue, or throat
Severe dizziness
Trouble breathing

Does Neurontin Have Special Storage Instructions?

This medication (tablets, extended release tablets, and capsules) should be stored at room temperature in its container tightly sealed out of reach of children. Store this medication away from heat and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. If taking the oral solution of this medication, store it in the refrigerator. Talk to your doctor about proper disposal options.

What Do I Do in the Case of an Accidental Overdose?

In case of a suspected overdose, contact an emergency room or poison control center immediately. For US residents, dial 911 in an emergency. For a local poison control center in the United States, call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a poison control center in their province.

Symptoms of overdose may include: