Neurontin for Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Neurontin is an anticonvulsant medication that is most commonly used to treat partial seizures in adults and children with epilepsy or nerve pain from shingles and herpes virus outbreaks. Recently, it has been studied and used for off-label purposes, such as treating individuals who suffer from generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).

Potential

• Many GAD sufferers state that Neurontin has given them the best anxiety relief they have felt for a long time, even while on other potent medications for their condition. Neurontin is believed to increase the effectiveness of other medications such as antidepressants. Most GAD sufferers currently on Neurontin also state that the drug has notably few side effects.

How to Use

• Neurontin treatment should be started with a low dose taken before bedtime to minimize the potential for discomfort from initial drowsiness. For maximum benefits, Neurontin should be taken at regular time intervals. This allows the amount of medicine in the body to be kept at a constant and therapeutic level. Like most medications for anxiety relief, Neurontin should not be discontinued suddenly to avoid negative withdrawal effects.

Side Effects

• Neurontin's most common side effects are similar to those of alcohol. Patients report feeling light-headed, dizzy and unsteady for the first couple doses of the medication or until the body gets used to the potency. There has also been reports of double vision. Less common side effects include nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, constipation and mild skin rash.

Warning

• Anti-seizure medications such as Neurontin increase the risk of suicidal thoughts in some patients. Individuals taking Neurontin should be closely monitored for changes in mood or exacerbated depression by both their doctor and close friends and family.

Considerations

• Though many patients offer great feedback, Neurontin is not currently approved for the off-label use of treating GAD, although it may be prescribed by a health care practitioner. Studies proving the effectiveness of this medication for patients with GAD are still being conducted. On May 13, 2004, Pfizer pled guilty to criminal charges of falsely marketing Neurontin before conclusive evidence was found on the therapeutic benefits of the medication.