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Why has my doctor prescribed Neurontin?
Neurontin has been found effective to help relieve certain types of nerve pain, such as radiculopathy of the spinal nerves and peripheral neuropathy.  Another use of Neurotin is to control partial seizures.  Your doctor has prescribed Neurontin to help relieve pain in your arm or leg caused by irrigation of one or more nerves.

What do I need to tell my doctor before taking Neurontin?
You should not take Neurontin if you have a history of kidney disease, are pregant or are trying to get pregnant, are breast feeding, or have had a reaction to Neurontin in the past.  As always, notify your doctor if you have allergies to drugs, foods or preservatives.

Neurotonin has been found to be less effective if taken with antacids or Cimetidine (Tagamet).  Let your doctor know if you are presently taking either of these medications.

What are the side effects of Neurontin?
Most patients are able to take Neurontin without side-effects.  You should stop the Neurotin and notify your doctor at once if you experience:

• difficulty breathing or tightening of the throat
• swelling of the lips or tongue
• a rash

It is not uncommon to feel somewhat drowsy for the first few days of your medication regimen.  Notify your doctor if blurred vision or drowsiness persist longer than 72 hours.

Occasionally other side-effects are noted, but may not require discontinuation of the medicine. These include:

• Constipation
• Restlessness
• Weight gain
• Indigestion
• Loss of appetite
• Sore gums
• Itching
• Impotence
• Dry mouth

Discuss any concerns you have with your doctor or doctor's nurse

What if I miss my dose of medication?
Neurontin should be taken at regular intervals.  Should you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can.  If it is almost time for your next dose, take that dose only.  Do not take double or extra doses.

Often your doctor will prescribe a low dose therapy for a week or so in order to monitor your response to Neurontin.  If this is ordered, be certain to report your results as soon as the trial is complete.