What it is used for

Nerve pain (neuropathic pain), such as after shingles or from diabetes
Focal seizures in epilepsy

Read our guides:

Off-label uses

Doctors sometimes prescribe a medicine for a condition it is not officially licensed for. This is called off-label use. It is legal and common when there is good evidence it helps, and your doctor should explain why they are suggesting it.

Preventing migraine
Hot flushes
Restless legs syndrome
Alcohol withdrawal and anxiety (limited evidence)

How it works

Gabapentin attaches to calcium channels on nerve cells and reduces the release of chemical messengers that pass on pain signals and seizure activity.

Side effects

Like all medicines, Gabapentin can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Many are mild and ease after the first few weeks.

Common side effects

feeling sleepy
tired or dizzy
unsteadiness
weight gain
swollen hands or feet
blurred vision
dry mouth

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if these bother you or do not go away.

Serious side effects

These are rare. Call 111 or contact your doctor straight away if you get:

slow or shallow breathing, especially if you also take opioids
thoughts of harming yourself
severe stomach pain, which can be a sign of an inflamed pancreas

Call 999 if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of your lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing.

You can report any side effect to the Yellow Card scheme, run by the medicines regulator.

Stopping and withdrawal

Important safety information

It is a controlled drug. It can cause dependence and be misused.
Taking it with opioids, alcohol or other sedatives raises the risk of dangerous breathing problems.
Do not drive if it makes you sleepy or dizzy.

Questions about your medicine?

A pharmacist can answer questions about your medicines for free, without an appointment. You can also ask your GP for a medication review. Check if you can get free prescriptions.