Gabapentin is used for treatment of neuropathic (nerve) pain. Learn how to use the medication, its common side effects, special precautions to watch out for, and more.

What is this medication for?

Gabapentin is used for treatment of neuropathic (nerve) pain. Nerve pain can happen if there is an injury to the nerves or parts of the nervous system. You may experience a tingling sensation (“pins and needles”), stabbing pain, sharp pain or a burning sensation at the affected area. 

Gabapentin may also be used in the treatment of seizures (fits).

How should I take or use this medication?

• Gabapentin may be taken with or without food. 
• For gabapentin capsules, swallow whole, do not crush or chew it. 
• Do not stop taking your medication without checking with your healthcare professional.

What should I do if I forget to take or use this medication?

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Then take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed dose. 

What precautions should I take when taking or using this medication?

Inform your healthcare professional if: 

• You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication
• You have a history of: 
  • Kidney condition
  • Myasthenia Gravis (an immune disease that causes muscle weakness)
  • Mental health conditions
• You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding 
• You are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies. 

What are some common side effects of this medication?

Common side effects of gabapentin include:

• Nausea
  • Take the medication with or after food to reduce nausea
• Drowsiness
  • Avoid driving or engaging in activities that require concentration
• Dizziness
  • Avoid driving or engaging in activities that require concentration. Get up slowly from a sitting or lying down position.
• Swelling of hands or legs      
• Fatigue (Feeling of tiredness)     
• Muscle weakness

What are some rare but serious side-effects that I need to seek medical advice immediately?

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following: 

• Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
• Difficulty in breathing
• Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

Other serious side effects include:

• Blurring of your vision or loss of vision
• Worsening agitation, restlessness or violent behaviour

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.

What food or medication should I avoid when I take or use this medication?

Avoid drinking alcohol while taking gabapentin as it can cause excessive drowsiness.

Take antacids at least two hours apart from gabapentin, as they may reduce the amount of medication being taken up by your body. 

How should I store this medication?

Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep this medication away from children. 

How do I throw away this medication safely?

Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing into the rubbish chute or bin.

Disclaimer

Please take note that the above is not a complete list of all possible side effects. If you have any concerns about your medication or if you have other side effects that you think are caused by this medication, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

If you take more than the recommended dose, please seek medical advice immediately. The information provided on this page does not replace information from your healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare professional for more information.

This article is jointly developed by members of the National Medication Information workgroup. The workgroup consists of cluster partners (National Healthcare Group, National University Health System and SingHealth), community pharmacies (Guardian, Unity and Watsons) and Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore. The content does not reflect drug availability and supply information in pharmacies and healthcare institutions. You are advised to check with the respective institutions for such information.

Last updated on March 2025