What Are The Most Serious Side Effects Of Gabapentin
Serious long-term effects are possible when taking gabapentin and may include: 1,4
- Tremors.
- Aggression.
- Temporary amnesia.
Those with a history of kidney disease may be subject to gabapentin toxicity, since this drug is substantially excreted through the kidneys.
Children between the ages of 3 and 12 may be prone to mood changes, onset of aggressive behavior, impaired concentration, hyperactive behavior, and changes in academic performance when taking gabapentin.7
Suicidal ideation is a rare but extremely serious side effects of gabapentin. You should seek help immediately if:4
- You have new or worsened depression or anxiety.
- You are suffering from panic attacks.
- You are having manic episodes.
- You are having intrusive thoughts about dying or suicide.
- You experience any other unusual changes in your mood or behavior.
Additional Information For Patients And Caregivers
- FDA is warning that serious breathing difficulties may occur when gabapentin or pregabalin is taken with other medicines that depress the central nervous system such as opioids, in those patients who have underlying respiratory problems, or in the elderly. There is less evidence supporting the risk of serious breathing difficulties with gabapentinoids alone in otherwise healthy individuals, and we will continue to monitor this population for additional evidence.
- Respiratory problems can be life-threatening, so seek medical attention immediately if you or someone you are caring for experiences the following symptoms:
- Confusion or disorientation
- Extreme sleepiness
- Slowed, shallow, or difficult breathing
- Unresponsiveness, which means the person doesnât answer or react normally or you canât wake them up
- Bluish-colored or tinted skin, especially on the lips, fingers, and toes
The Need To Monitor Kidney Function With Certain Drugs
Experts have suggested that after the initial assessment of kidney function, physicians should consider regular monitoring after starting or increasing the dosage of drugs associated with nephrotoxicity, especially those used chronically in patients with multiple risk factors for impaired kidney function, Dr. Naughton noted. If there is any sign of kidney harm, the provider should review the medications you are taking in order to identify which one is causing the problem.
If multiple medications are present and the patient is clinically stable, physicians should start by discontinuing the drug most recently added to the patients medication regimen. Once that has been taken care of, further harm to the kidneys may be minimized by keeping blood pressure stable, staying hydrated, and temporarily avoiding the use of other medications that may cause nephrotoxicity.
These safety tips can ensure you get the care you need while keeping your kidneys safe. That way, they can tend to essential functions like keeping things flowing .Originally published May 11, 2017
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Kidney Impairment Can Be Costly
Although renal impairment is often reversible if the offending drug is discontinued, the condition can be costly and may require multiple interventions, including hospitalization, Dr. Naughton explained. To help you avoid getting to that point, we learned about medications that commonly cause kidney damage from Rebekah Krupski, PharmD, RPh, pharmacy resident at the Cleveland Clinic and clinical instructor of pharmacy practice at Northeast Ohio Medical University.
Rational Dosing Of Gabapentin And Pregabalin In Chronic Kidney Disease
Accepted for publication 10 January 2017
27 January 2017Volume 2017:10 Pages 275278
Mena Raouf, 1 Timothy J Atkinson, 1 Meredith W Crumb, 1 Jeffrey Fudin 2 5 1VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Murfreesboro, Nashville, TN, 2Stratton VA Medical Center, 3Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Albany, NY, 4Western New England University College of Pharmacy, Springfield, MA, 5Scientific and Clinical Affairs, Remitigate LLC, Delmar, NY, USA
Introduction
Renal dose adjustments for gabapentin and pregabalin are ubiquitously evident in the medical literature. All manufacturers for these branded and generic dosage forms list dosing recommendations relative to creatinine clearance for both medications .1,2 However, the basis of these recommendations has not been well articulated.
|
Table 1 Recommended dose adjustments based on varying degrees of renal impairment Abbreviation: CrCl, creatinine clearance. |
Pharmacology
Pharmacokinetics and renal handling
Pregabalins apparent total clearance is 6781 mL/min in young healthy subjects and is therefore thought to undergo tubular reabsorption to some extent.2 Hemodialysis removes approximately 35% of gabapentin and 50%60% of pregabalin, where supplemental doses are generally recommended post-HD.1,2
Therapeutic dosing targets
Dosing considerations in chronic kidney disease
A theoretical approach: the Rowland and Tozer equation
|
Figure 1 RowlandTozer method. |
Disclosure
References
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What Is My Risk
All medicines have side effects even when used correctly as prescribed, but in general the benefits of taking a medicine outweigh these risks. It is important to know that people respond differently to all medicines depending on their health, other medicines they are taking, the diseases they have, genetics, and many other factors. As a result, we cannot determine the likelihood that someone will experience these side effects when taking gabapentinoids. Your personal health care professional knows you best, so always tell them about all other medicines you are taking and if you experience any side effects while taking your medicines.
What Exactly Is Cirrhosis Of The Liver
The liver is the bodys biggest solid organ and the second largest overall after the skin. The liver has several key functions in the body including:
- Storing extra nutrients
- Make bile for digesting food
- Producing blood proteins for clotting
- Returning some nutrients to the bloodstream
- Store blood sugar
Liver cirrhosis is a late-stage liver disease that involves scar tissue replacing healthy liver tissue. This results in the scar tissue blocking blood flow throughout the liver. This makes it tougher for the liver to process various things like nutrients, hormones, and medicines. Its also more difficult to filter out toxins.
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Does Gabapentin Have Any Adverse Side Affects To The Liver
- Asked
- 16 Sep 2013 by crake68
kaismama
You answered your own question. The drug company will give the percentage of incidence. Even if a drug isn’t metabolized by the liver, it filters through it.
+2liverpal
Dude whoever you are listen to my warning. Dont take neurontin/gabapentin. I have gotten liver problems from it.
+0Robin Pearson
My Nerologist told me it was safe but I’m not to sure after reading some responses. I have Stage 4 NASH Cirrhosis with a few other complications. I sure don’t need a drug to interfere with it. I’m kind of worried now. I’ve been on the Gabapentin for a little over a month with no relief yet. I take 300mgs a day
+0
Get off of the gabapentin. Go slowly while getting off of it. Best of luck to you and god bless. Trish
+1ImaMess79+1
Does Gabapentin Cause Elevated Liver Enzymes
Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant that is sometimes used to treat epilepsy. It also may be used to lessen symptoms of postherpetic neuralgia, a complication of shingles that affects your nerve fibers and skin and causes burning pain 2. Its been prescribed for peripheral neuropathy, a painful complication of diabetes, as well. Though your liver does not metabolize this drug, there have been a few case reports of abnormal liver function tests associated with it.
If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.
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Gabapentin May Interact With Other Medications
Gabapentin oral capsule can interact with several other medications. Different interactions can cause different effects. For instance, some can interfere with how well a drug works, while others can cause increased side effects.
Below is a list of medications that can interact with gabapentin. This list does not contain all drugs that may interact with gabapentin.
Before taking gabapentin, be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all prescription, over-the-counter, and other drugs you take. Also tell them about any vitamins, herbs, and supplements you use. Sharing this information can help you avoid potential interactions.
If you have questions about drug interactions that may affect you, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
How Does This Medication Work What Will It Do For Me
Gabapentin belongs to the class of medications called anti-epileptics. It is used in combination with other seizure control medications to manage and prevent seizures associated with epilepsy. Gabapentin does not cure epilepsy and only works to control seizures as long as the medication is taken. Gabapentin works by affecting the transmission of nerve signals in the brain.
This medication may be available under multiple brand names and/or in several different forms. Any specific brand name of this medication may not be available in all of the forms or approved for all of the conditions discussed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
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Dosage For Postherpetic Neuralgia
Adult dosage
- Typical starting dosage: Day 1, 300 mg day 2, 600 mg day 3, 900 mg . Your doctor may further increase your dosage after day 3.
- Maximum dosage: 1,800 mg per day
Child dosage
Dosage for people younger than 18 years has not been established.
Senior dosage
Your kidney function may decrease with age. Your body may get rid of this drug more slowly. Your doctor may start you on a lower dose so that too much of this drug does not build up in your body. Too much of the drug in your body can be dangerous. Your doctor may change your dose based on how well your kidneys are working.
What Form Does This Medication Come In
Gabapentin is no longer being manufactured for sale in Canada. For brands that may still be available, search under gabapentin. This article is being kept available for reference purposes only. If you are using this medication, speak with your doctor or pharmacist for information about your treatment options.
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Gabapentin And Kidney Function Changes
Date January 29, 2014Author By Eric ChristiansonCategory Kidney, Pain
This elderly patient had been on a dose of gabapentin 600 mg three times daily for peripheral neuropathy. Over time, the patients kidney function had been declining and was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease.
Family had begun to notice that the patient was becoming more lethargic and dizzy. The patient had also made the comment that they felt snowed from time to time. Meclizine was added as needed to help treat the dizziness and the team decided to monitor the other symptoms at this time. The peripheral neuropathy was well managed with no noted pain stated by the patient.
Because of the decline in kidney function the previous dose of gabapentin was now inappropriate especially in this case secondary to the noted adverse effects. Gabapentin is primarily eliminated from the body through the kidney. Gabapentin was reduced and the patients symptoms did resolve. The meclizine added for dizziness was also eventually discontinued as we didnt have any side effects to treat anymore
1,000 healthcare professionals across the world have taken advantage of this free resource My 30 medication mistakes Why havent you?
Common Side Effects Of Gabapentin
On its own, gabapentin has a lower risk for abuse than similar benzodiazepines and opioids but like any drug, gabapentin causes side effects, the nature and severity of which depend on how much of the medication is consumed, and for how long. At the shorter end of the spectrum, the effects are mostly tolerable and will pass after the body becomes accustomed to the effects of the gabapentin. Mayo Clinic lists some of the milder and short-term effects of gabapentin:
- Loss of balance
- Some changes to mood and temperament
- Difficulty with visual focus, sometimes seeing double
The loss of balance and difficulty with movement coordination tend to present more in elderly individuals, who are at a high risk for falling injuries. Children tend to experience mood changes and periods of depression when taking gabapentin.
Not all patients will experience gabapentin side effects, and most will feel only the milder effects of gabapentin use when they go on a prescribed regimen. But taking higher doses of gabapentin, or taking it for very long periods of time, increases the severity of the side effects. According to WebMD, these can be anything from swelling in the hands and feet to extreme mood swings . Some patients experience short-term memory loss and mental disorientation while others note generalized pain, usually concentrated in the stomach.
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Medications That Can Harm The Kidneys
No matter what kind of medicine you take, whether OTC or prescription, it is destined to take a trip through your kidneys. Taking a drug the wrong way or in excessive amounts can damage these vital, bean-shaped organs and lead to serious complications. In the worst-case scenario, it could necessitate a kidney transplant.
Compared with 30 years ago, patients todayhave a higher incidence of diabetes and cardiovascular disease, take multiple medications, and are exposed to more diagnostic and therapeutic procedures with the potential to harm kidney function, according to Cynthia A. Naughton, PharmD, senior associate dean and associate professor in the department of pharmacy practice at North Dakota State University. All of these factors are associated with an elevated risk of kidney damage.
An estimated 20% of cases of acute kidney failure are due to medications. The technical term for this scenario is nephrotoxicity, which is growing more common as the aging population grows, along with rates of various diseases.
The kidneys get rid of waste and extra fluid in the body by filtering the blood to produce urine. They also keep electrolyte levels balanced and make hormones that influence blood pressure, bone strength and the production of red blood cells. When something interferes with the kidneys, they cant do their job, so these functions can slow down or stop altogether.
Getting Help For Gabapentin Addiction
Gabapentin misuse can give rise to numerous short-term and long-term health issues. Because of this, any abuse of gabapentin is cause for concern and intervention. Treatment centers that provide evidence-based treatment with professionals knowledgeable about gabapentin abuse as well as its polydrug abuse with opioids or other drugs can provide help you need to gain control over your substance use and live a life in recovery. This may be achieved through a variety of therapeutic approaches, including:
- Interpersonal or family therapy
- Life skills training.
When you stop abusing gabapentin or any other substance, you give your body and mind a chance to recover and normalize. Many of the health issues that come with gabapentin abuse will resolve when you clear your body of the substance and stay drug-free. Professional rehabilitation can be an important stepping stone to a healthy and substance-free future.
Greenhouse Treatment Center combines the comforts of an upscale rehab with the high-quality treatment youd expect in a professional drug abuse rehab program. With licensed therapists and medical professionals, youll have access to the treatment you need to get better. Our program offers co-occurring disorder treatment to address not only your addiction but any mental health issues that are complicating your substance use. Our offering range from detox to outpatient care and sober living. Wherever you are in the process of recovery, were here to help.
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What Is The Likelihood Of Experiencing Side Effects With Gabapentin
There are certainly some ways to predict who will experience certain side effects however, it is impossible to know with 100% certainty what side effects youll experience, especially if you are not using the substance as intended. The list of side effects youre likely to experience may be much longer if you are taking it in higher doses than prescribed, without a prescription, or in combination with other drugs of abuse. For example, if youre abusing it in combination with another drug, such as methadone, you risk experiencing the side effects of either drug alone, as well as the effects of the interaction between the two.8
It is impossible to know with 100% certainty what side effects youll experience, especially if you are not using the substance as intended.
Certain prescription medications and supplements may also interact with gabapentin with a resultant higher risk of side effects. If you are prescribed gabapentin, always fully disclose to your doctor what medications and other substances you are using on a regular basis.
As indicated above, the presence of preexisting conditions may make your side effects worse. For example, if you suffer from depression, your depression may worsen while you take gabapentin. If you have impaired renal function, you may be more likely to experience toxic reactions from the drug.4
Does Gabapentin Cause Increased Appetite In Dogs
Side effects of gabapentin in dogs and cats are uncommon and the principal side effect seen is mild sedation/lethargy and ataxia of the hind limbs.
Increased appetite and mild weight gain have been reported.
There is also a solution of gabapentin available with a concentration of 50 mg/mL.
Side effects of gabapentin in dogs and cats are uncommon and the principal side effect seen is mild sedation/lethargy and ataxia of the hind limbs.
Increased appetite and mild weight gain have been reported.
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