Gabapentin Toxicity

Gabapentin has been FDA approved for epilepsy and PHN but is also used off-label for BPD, RLS, MDD and neuropathic pain

Action:Binds to α-2-δ subunit of voltage-gated calcium channels in the neuron
does not act on gaba receptors despite it's name

Five Most Common Adverse Effects From Clinical Trials
-Postherpetic Neuralgia Trials in Adults. Dizziness, somnolence, peripheral edema, asthenia, and diarrhea
-Epilepsy Trials in Patients >12 Years. Somnolence, dizziness, ataxia, fatigue, and nystagmus
-Epilepsy Trials in Patients 3 to 12 Years. Viral infection, fever, nausea/vomiting, somnolence, and hostility (behavior problems)

(Ellen Eaton MD, 11/18/10)