Overview and available strengths

Neurontin contains gabapentin, an anticonvulsant that helps calm overactive nerve signals. It is often used with other anti-seizure medicines and is also prescribed for certain nerve pain conditions.

Available strengths in the USA include: 100 mg, 300 mg, 400 mg, 600 mg, and 800 mg capsules or tablets. Your prescriber will choose a dose and schedule matched to your condition and kidney function.

Looking for interactions? Jump to interactions. Need information about legal status? See U.S. legal notes.

Tell your clinician before starting

Share your full medical history and all medicines you take. Be sure to mention if any of the following apply to you:

  • Any history of suicidal thoughts or behavior in you or close family
  • Current pregnancy, plans to become pregnant, or trying to conceive
  • Breast-feeding
  • Kidney problems or you are on dialysis
  • Allergies or unusual reactions to gabapentin, other drugs, foods, dyes, or preservatives

Dosing may be adjusted for kidney disease. If you are uncertain, ask your pharmacist or prescriber.

How to take Neurontin

Take gabapentin by mouth with a glass of water, with or without food. If it upsets your stomach, take it with food or milk. Use exactly as directed on your label and take it at the same times each day. Do not take more often than prescribed.

If your prescriber instructs you to split 600 mg or 800 mg tablets, use the leftover half for your next dose. Discard any unused half-tablet after 3 days.

Important: Do not suddenly stop this medicine unless your prescriber guides you. Stopping abruptly can increase seizure risk or worsen symptoms.

Children: Pediatric use should be directed by a pediatric specialist. Doses differ by age, weight, and indication.

Using an extended-release brand of gabapentin (for example, products other than Neurontin)? Do not crush or chew extended-release tablets. Ask your pharmacist if you are unsure which type you were given.

Overdose: If you think you have taken too much, call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222 or go to the nearest emergency room right away.

Missed dose advice

If you forget a dose, take it when you remember unless it is less than 4 hours until your next scheduled dose. If so, skip the missed dose and resume your usual schedule. Do not double up.

Drug and product interactions

Some products can change how gabapentin works or raise the chance of side effects. Tell your clinician about everything you take, including over-the-counter items and supplements.

  • Morphine - may increase gabapentin levels and sedation
  • Naproxen - may modestly affect absorption or side effects in some people
  • Sevelamer - may reduce gabapentin absorption
  • Hydrocodone - risk of additive drowsiness or breathing problems
  • Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium - can decrease gabapentin absorption; separate dosing by at least 2 hours

Alcohol can add to dizziness and drowsiness. Avoid or limit alcohol while on gabapentin. If you smoke or use recreational substances, discuss this openly with your prescriber.

What to watch for during treatment

Schedule regular follow-ups so your clinician can monitor effectiveness and side effects. Keep a simple diary of your symptoms, seizure frequency, or pain levels and share it at visits.

Call your prescriber promptly if seizures worsen, a new seizure type appears, or mood changes emerge. Wear a medical ID bracelet or carry a medication card if you use this for seizure control.

Gabapentin can cause sleepiness, dizziness, or blurred vision. Do not drive or use heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Rise slowly from sitting or lying positions, especially if you are older. See side effects below.

Dry mouth can occur. Sugar-free gum or candy and good hydration may help.

A warning for mood changes: A small number of people may experience suicidal thoughts or behavior. Report any severe anxiety, agitation, depression, or thoughts of self-harm immediately.

Possible side effects

Get urgent medical care if you notice any of the following serious reactions:

  • Mood deterioration, new or worsening depression, or thoughts of self-harm
  • Allergic reactions such as hives, rash, itching, or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

Other effects are usually mild and often improve as your body adjusts. Tell your clinician if they are severe or persistent:

  • Tremors or shakiness
  • Weight gain
  • Slurred speech
  • Nausea
  • Constipation
  • Unsteady gait or trouble coordinating movements

Storage and handling

Keep out of reach of children. Store at room temperature, ideally 15 to 30 degrees C (59 to 86 degrees F). Discard any medication past the expiration date. Follow local guidance for safe medicine disposal; many pharmacies offer take-back programs.

Similar or alternative medicines

Depending on your diagnosis and medical history, your prescriber may consider alternatives to Neurontin. Do not switch without guidance. Options may include:

  • Pregabalin (Lyrica) - a related agent for neuropathic pain and certain seizures; often faster titration but typically higher cost
  • Lamotrigine - an anticonvulsant frequently used for seizure control and bipolar depression; different side effect profile
  • Carbamazepine or oxcarbazepine - effective for focal seizures and some neuralgias; monitor for drug interactions
  • Topiramate - broad-spectrum anticonvulsant; may cause cognitive side effects in some individuals
  • Tricyclic antidepressants (for neuropathic pain), such as amitriptyline or nortriptyline - used at low doses, watch for anticholinergic effects
  • Duloxetine or venlafaxine - SNRIs with evidence in neuropathic pain, especially diabetic neuropathy

For a head-to-head cost snapshot versus pregabalin and others, see prices in the USA.

Typical prices in the USA (rough comparison)

Prices vary widely by pharmacy, location, insurance, and discount programs. The figures below are broad cash-price estimates in USD and are not quotes:

  • Gabapentin generic: around $6 to $25 for 90 capsules of 300 mg with common pharmacy discounts; without discounts, some pharmacies may list $20 to $60.
  • Neurontin brand: often $300 to $500+ for a 30-day supply depending on strength.
  • Pregabalin (Lyrica) brand: commonly $350 to $700+ per month; generic pregabalin is often $10 to $60 with discounts.
  • Lamotrigine generic: frequently $4 to $20 for a month at many retail pharmacies.
  • Carbamazepine generic: typically $10 to $40 monthly.
  • Duloxetine generic: usually $6 to $30 monthly.

For the best price, compare several pharmacies, ask about discount cards, or consult your insurer's formulary.