GABAPENTIN

Mechanism of Action :

Gabapentin is structurally related to the neurotransmitter GABA but is neither a GABA agonist nor antagonist. Gabapentin-binding sites have been identified throughout the brain tissues e.g. neocortex and hippocampus. However, the exact mechanism of action is still unknown.

Oral
EPILEPSY (PARTIAL SEIZURES WITH OR WITHOUT SECONDARY GENERALISATION)
Adult: Initially, 300 mg on the 1st day, 300 mg bid on the 2nd day and 300 mg tid on the 3rd day. Thereafter, may increase dose until effective antiepileptic control is achieved. Usual maintenance range: 0.9-3.6 g daily; daily dose to be taken in 3 equally divided doses and max dosing interval: 12 hr. Max: 4.8 g daily.
Child: 6-12 yr: Initially, 10 mg/kg on the 1st day, 20 mg/kg on the 2nd day and 25-35 mg/kg on the 3rd day. Maintenance: 1200 mg daily (37-50 kg); 900 mg daily (26-36 kg). Total daily dose to be taken in 3 equally divided doses.
NEUROPATHIC PAIN
Adult: Titrate to a max of 1.8 g daily in 3 divided doses.

Interactions :

Cimetidine may reduce gabapentin clearance. Absorption reduced with antacids.