Gabapentin
Uses
Gabapentin is used in the treatment of neuropathic pain and epilepsy
How it works
Gabapentin decreases pain and seizures by modulating calcium channel activity of the nerve cells.
Common side effects
Sleepiness, Dizziness, Uncoordinated body movement, Fatigue
Notriptyline
Uses
Nortriptyline is used in the treatment of depression
How it works
Nortriptyline increases the levels of chemical messengers in the brain that help in regulating the mood and treat depression.
Common side effects
Sleepiness, Increased heart rate, Weight gain, Difficulty in urination, Orthostatic hypotension (sudden lowering of blood pressure on standing), Dry mouth, Constipation
Expert advice FOR GABAPIN NT
Always take gabapentin capsules, tablets, and oral solutions with a full glass of water (240 ml). Do not use the medication:
- If you develop thoughts of harming or killing self (suicidal ideation)or behavior.
- If you develop allergic reaction after taking one or more doses of gabapentin (hypersensitivity).
- with symptoms such as rash, fever or swelling of lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy).
- If you have any kidney problem or currently on hemodialysis.
- If you develop muscle pain and/ or weakness.
- If you develop symptoms such as persistent stomach pain, urge to vomit (nausea), vomiting, contact your doctor immediately as these may be symptoms of inflammation of pancreas (acute pancreatitis).
Stop the drug if you have persistent stomach pain or feeling of being sick ( these may be signs of acute inflammation in pancreas).
Frequently asked questions FOR GABAPIN NT
Gabapentin
Q.
Is gabapentin used as a muscle relaxant or, blood thinner?
No. Gabapentin is a prescription medication and has no role in muscle relaxation or, blood thinning
Q.
Is gabapentin an opiate, benzo or NSAID?
Gabapentin is an analog of GABA (gamma- amino butyric acid), that is effective against fits and pain due to nerve damage or nerve irritation. It is not an opiate or benzodiazepine or NSAID
Q.
Is gabapentin (dose 600 mg) a narcotic?
No. Gabapentin at any dose is not a narcotic agent. Follow the advice of your doctor regarding the best dose suited for your condition
Nortriptyline
Q.
Is nortriptyline an MAOI/SSRI?
No, they belong to class of medication called as tricyclic antidepressant
Q.
Is nortriptyline same as amitryptiline?
Nortriptyline and amitriptyline belongs to same category of drugs with similar action, but their effect may vary upon individual response
Q.
Is nortriptyline safe?
Nortriptyline is safe if used at prescribed doses for the prescribed duration as advised by your doctor
