Side Effects of gabapentin: A Synthesis of Findings from 6 Studies

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This information is not medical advice and is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a physician.Data sources and disclaimers (data limitations, copyright, etc.)The analysis on "Side Effects of gabapentin: A Synthesis of Findings from 6 Studies" on this page is based on PubMed data provided by the U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM). However, NLM does not endorse or verify these analyses.

This analysis is based on research papers included in PubMed, but medical research is constantly evolving and may not fully reflect the latest findings. There may also be biases towards certain research areas.

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Original Abstract of the Article

Major Research Findings

Gabapentin is a medication used to treat chronic pruritus, neuropathic pain, epilepsy, anxiety, and other conditions. Several studies have shown that gabapentin can cause side effects. For example, 6 reported behavioral side effects in children who received gabapentin, including tantrums, aggression, hyperactivity, and defiance. 5 found that gabapentin affects eye movements and posture control in healthy volunteers.

Reasons for Side Effects

Gabapentin works by enhancing the effects of the neurotransmitter GABA, which inhibits nerve excitation. Therefore, gabapentin is thought to affect the nervous system and cause various side effects.

Common Side Effects

Behavioral Side Effects

Gabapentin can cause behavioral side effects in children, such as tantrums, aggression, hyperactivity, and defiance. 6

Effects on Eye Movements and Posture Control

Gabapentin can affect eye movements and posture control. 5

Other Side Effects

Gabapentin can cause side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, unsteadiness, fatigue, nausea, and constipation. 1 3 also reviews gabapentin misuse, drug interactions, contraindications, and side effects, reporting side effects such as teratogenicity, hypoventilation, respiratory failure, and myopathy.

Side Effect Management

Behavioral Side Effects

If behavioral side effects occur, reducing the dosage or discontinuing gabapentin may improve the symptoms. 6

Effects on Eye Movements and Posture Control

Adjusting the dosage of gabapentin may help alleviate symptoms related to eye movements and posture control. 5

Comparison Between Studies

Commonalities

Multiple studies have shown that gabapentin can cause side effects.

Differences

Each study has reported different types and severities of side effects. For example, 6 reports behavioral side effects in children, while 5 reports effects on eye movements and posture control in healthy volunteers.

Considerations for Real-Life Applications

While gabapentin holds promise for treating various conditions, its potential side effects must be acknowledged. Children and the elderly may be more susceptible to side effects. It is crucial to strictly follow your doctor’s instructions when taking gabapentin. If you experience any side effects, consult your doctor immediately.

Limitations of Current Research

Research on gabapentin is still ongoing, and more research is needed, especially regarding long-term side effects.

Future Research Directions

Further research is required to gain a deeper understanding of gabapentin’s side effects, particularly in the long term. Identifying risk factors that increase susceptibility to side effects, such as specific patient demographics or situations, is essential. Research should also focus on developing strategies to prevent or mitigate side effects.

Conclusion

Gabapentin is a medication with potential benefits for treating various conditions, but it is crucial to consider its potential side effects. Always follow your doctor’s instructions when taking gabapentin. If you experience any side effects, consult your doctor promptly.

Literature analysis of 6 papers
Positive Content
4
Neutral Content
0
Negative Content
2
Article Type
1
1
1
2
6
1.

Gabapentin for neuropathic pain: systematic review of controlled and uncontrolled literature.

Author: MellegersM A, FurlanA D, MailisA

Neuropathic pain relief
Central nervous system side effects

Gabapentin is an effective treatment for various neuropathic pain conditions, including diabetic neuropathy and post-herpetic neuralgia. The effectiveness of gabapentin may be reduced if low doses are used, and rapid dose escalation may be associated with increased central nervous system side effects.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

2.

Gabapentin and oral antidepressants for chronic pruritus: a prospective cohort study evaluating efficacy and side effects in daily dermatological practice.

Author: KouwenhovenT A, van de KerkhofP C M, KamsteegM

Chronic pruritus relief
Gabapentin and antidepressant use

Gabapentin and antidepressants were effective and safe in treating chronic pruritus unresponsive to conventional treatment.

Observational StudyResearch that observes and collects data on participants' behavior and outcomes in their natural state, without intervention.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

3.

Review about gabapentin misuse, interactions, contraindications and side effects.

Author: QuinteroGabriel C

Drug interactions
Hypoventilation
Misuse
Myopathy
Respiratory failure
Teratogenicity

This review discusses the risks of gabapentin misuse, its potential interactions with other drugs, side effects, and contraindications, highlighting the importance of awareness and responsible prescribing practices.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

4.

A case of sustained massive gabapentin overdose without serious side effects.

Author: VermaA, St ClairE W, RadtkeR A

This case report describes a patient who received a massive overdose of gabapentin, an antiepileptic medication. The patient experienced no significant toxicity.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

5.

Gabapentin and carbamazepine affect eye movements and posture control differently: a placebo-controlled investigation of acute CNS side effects in healthy volunteers.

Author: NoachtarS, von MaydellB, FuhryL, BüttnerU

Antiepileptic
Eye movement effects
Posture control effects

This study compared the effects of gabapentin (GBP), carbamazepine (CBZ), and placebo (PLA) on eye movements, posture, and finger force control in healthy volunteers. Both GBP and CBZ reduced saccade velocity, but CBZ significantly prolonged saccade duration. GBP increased body sway more than CBZ.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

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