Pfizer Neurontin

Neurontin FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions: Neurontin (gabapentin)

What is Neurontin?

Neurontin affects chemicals and nerves in the body that are involved in the cause of seizures and some types of pain. The exact way that it works is unknown. Neurontin is used with other drugs in the treatment of some types of seizures and for the management of postherpetic neuralgia (nerve pain caused by the herpes virus or shingles). However, the drug's manufacturer Pfizer Inc. was investigated for allegedly marketing the drug for unapproved uses. For instance, the drug was being prescribed for off-label uses, such as the treatment of bipolar disorder or restless leg syndrome.

What are the approved uses of Neurontin?

Neurontin is approved for the adjunctive treatment of certain seizures and for the management of nerve pain related to herpes or shingles.

What are Neurontin's unapproved uses?

Pfizer has been accused of marketing Neurontin for off-label uses of the following conditions: migraine headaches; bipolar disorder; ADD; restless leg syndrome; essential tremor periodic limb movements; seizures related to drug and alcohol withdrawal; epilepsy as monotherapy; trigeminal neuralgia; reflex sympathetic dystrophy; and pain syndromes.

What are the possible side effects of Neurontin?

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Neurontin and seek medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:

• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives).

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Some of these Neurontin side effects include:

• dizziness, poor coordination, or drowsiness;
• blurred or double vision;
• irregular back-and- forth movements of the eyes;
• nausea and vomiting; or
• tremor.

If children 3 to 12 years of age experience any of the following serious side effects, contact your doctor immediately:

• emotional liability (anxiety, behavior problems, crying, false sense of well-being, mental depression, reacting too quickly, too emotionally, or overreacting, rapidly changing moods);
• hostility (aggressive behavior, suspiciousness, or distrust);
• restlessness, hyperactivity or increase in body movements;
• amnesia (loss of memory); or
• thought disorders (concentration problems and change in school performance).

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What are the most serious side effects associated with Neurontin?

The most serious Neurontin side effect is suicidal tendency. Children are particularly susceptible to this side effect.

Can I recover compensation if I have been injured by Neurontin?

Patients who were prescribed Neurontin for off-label uses, such as the treatment of ADD, may be eligible for compensation if they were injured by the drug. To find out if you have a case, contact our Neurontin attorneys today.