About Gabapentin

What is Gabapentin?

Gabapentin is a prescription medication that belongs to a class of drugs called anticonvulsants or anti-seizure drugs. It was originally developed to treat epilepsy but has since been found effective for various types of nerve pain and other neurological conditions.

The medication is available in several forms including capsules, tablets, and oral solutions, and is marketed under various brand names including Neurontin, Gralise, and Horizant.

How Gabapentin Works

Gabapentin works by affecting the way nerves send messages to your brain. Specifically, it:

• Binds to calcium channels in nerve cells
• Reduces the release of certain neurotransmitters
• Decreases abnormal excitement in the brain
• Helps stabilize electrical activity in nerve cells

This mechanism helps reduce seizures in epilepsy and can also help reduce nerve pain signals.

Clinical History

Gabapentin was first synthesized in 1975 and was approved by the FDA in 1993 for the treatment of epilepsy. Over the years, its approved uses have expanded to include:

• 1993: FDA approval for epilepsy
• 2002: Approval for postherpetic neuralgia
• 2011: Extended-release formulation for neuropathic pain

Forms and Strengths

Gabapentin is available in several different forms to accommodate different patient needs: