How to Treat Arthritis Pain With Neurontin or Gabapentin

Gabapentin, also known by the brand name Neurontin, has been clinically found to be effective in the treatment of chronic pain, including arthritis pain. Originally designed to treat seizures, researchers stumbled upon the additional use for gabapentin in managing neuropathic pain. It is not exactly clear how gabapentin works in alleviating arthritis pain, but many scientists believe the anticonvulsant plays a role in monitoring how brain chemicals communicate with nerves in the body. If you are suffering from arthritis pain, gabapentin could be a possible tool you can use to manage the discomfort.

Instructions

• 1

  Consult your physician. Gabapentin is a prescription drug and can only be prescribed by a licensed physician. Tell your physician what you have learned about gabapentin and explain your desire to add the drug to your pain management program.

• 2

  Ask your pharmacist about any potential drug interactions when you fill your prescription.

• 3

  Read the medication guide that is comes with your filled prescription of gabapentin before taking your first pill. Be sure to keep an eye out for all warnings, including those that advise on the frequency, timing and nature in which the medicine should be taken. Follow all directions exactly.

• 4

  Consider tracking your pain levels during the first month or two of taking the medication. This can help you identify whether or not the medication is working.