Bimat Eye Drops from Ajanta Pharma Ltd serves as an ophthalmic solution which health professionals use to treat individuals with elevated intraocular pressure in patients who have either ocular hypertension or open-angle glaucoma. Bimatoprost serves as Bimat Eye Drops’ main ingredient because it operates as a prostaglandin analogue to manage pressure inside the eyes thus protecting vision sensitivity and the optic nerve. The following article gives comprehensive information about Bimat Eye Drops with specifics about its therapeutic function along with its operational method and suitable dosage along with potential adverse effects and warnings and recommended storage approaches.

Uses of Bimat Eye Drops

Bimat Eye Drops serves primarily to treat following medical conditions:

Ocular Hypertension: People diagnosed with this condition experience elevated pressure within their eyes because the disorder leads to glaucoma development if treatment is delayed.

Open-Angle Glaucoma: The optic nerve becomes damaged as fluid pressure rises because of this persistent eye condition which could cause blindness.

How Bimat Eye Drops Work

The primary medication Bimataprost within Bimat Eye Drops functions as a member of the prostaglandin analogue drug group. It works by:

• The drug stimulates uveoscleral aqueducts which leads to fluid drainage from the eye.
• Bimat Eye Drops limits the production of aqueous humor as one means to lower eye pressure.

Recommended Dosage and Administration

Standard Dosage

One eye drop should be applied to the affected area once per day in the evening time.

Administration Instructions

• Facedown Room-Temperature Instruments and wash your hands until they become germ-free.
• Pull down the lower eyelid to make a small space for the solution while keeping your head tilted backward.
• Instill the drop through the dropper from close proximity to the eye while keeping the dropper off the surface. Insert only one drop into the lower eyelid.
• Place pressure for one to two minutes over the inner eye while keeping your eyes shut so the solution does not reach your tear duct.
• You should allow a minimum five to ten minutes between applying different eye drops.

Note: Stick to the recommended measurement of medication. The correct action is to take your medication as soon as you remember but if it is near the next regular dose time you should just skip the missed dose.

Side Effects of Bimat Eye Drops

This medication produces two types of side effects which we categorize in the following manner:

Common Side Effects

• Blurred vision (temporary)
• Eye itching, burning, or redness
• Eye discomfort or irritation
• Increased eyelash growth or thickness
• Changes in eyelash color or direction of growth
• Conjunctival hyperemia (redness of the eye)

Less Common but Serious Side Effects

• Eye pain or swelling
• Vision changes or disturbances
• Darkening of the iris (colored part of the eye)
• Sensitivity to light
• Signs of allergic reactions (e.g., skin rash, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing)

Beware of severe side effects because you must stop using the medication right away and visit a doctor immediately.

Precautions and Warnings

Before using Bimat Eye Drops, consider the following precautions:

Allergies: You should not use Bimat Eye Drops when you have allergies to Bimatoprost along with its active or inactive components in the solution.

Contact Lenses: People should take out their contact lenses before installing Bimat Eye Drops and spend at least 15 minutes without their lenses before placing them back.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The doctor must evaluate if you can safely use Bimat Eye Drops throughout your pregnancy and breastfeeding period.

Driving and Operating Machinery: Users of Bimat Eye Drops should avoid driving machinery because the drops could temporarily reduce their eyesight.

Bacterial Contamination: Bacterial infection of the cornea can occur when you prevent bacterial keratitis by keeping the dropper tip away from surfaces and your eyes and other surfaces.

Storage Instructions

• Store Bimat Eye Drops at room temperature (20°C to 25°C or 68°F to 77°F).
• Protect the bottle from direct sunlight and moisture.
• Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Discard the bottle 4 weeks after opening, even if some solution remains.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take for Bimat Eye Drops to work?

Bimat Eye Drops begins to work after its four-hour application to the eye surface.

Can I use Bimat Eye Drops with other eye medications?

Yes, two eye drop applications should be spaced by 5-10 minutes to prevent drug interaction effects.

Is Bimat Eye Drops habit-forming?

No, the use of Bimat Eye Drops will not lead to any addictive tendencies.

What should I do if I experience severe side effects?

Stop using the medication right away then visit your physician.

Conclusion

The prescription medicine Bimat Eye Drops provides efficient treatment for people who have intraocular pressure in their eyes or open-angle glaucoma. The Bimatoprost substance found in Bimat Eye Drops promotes eye pressure reduction through fluid drainage stimulation to stop vision deterioration.

Strattera is a prescription-only drug that has Atomoxetine as the active ingredient. It belongs to a drug class called Selective Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor. FDA approved this medicine in November 2002 to treat Attention-Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder.

The medication is taken by mouth. Strattera is available in various dosages, including 100 mg, 80 mg, 40 mg, 25 mg, and 10 mg capsules. 

What Are Strattera Uses?

Strattera (Atomoxetine) https://medicalhomecare.com/strattera/ is mainly used in the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Sometimes, this medication also helps to treat cognitive disengagement syndrome. It may be used alone or together with stimulant medication.

Note: Atomoxetine is only recommended for persons at least six years old.

Mechanism of Action

Atomoxetine is thought to work by raising Norepinephrine levels in the brain. Norepinephrine is a chemical messenger involved in impulse control and hyperactivity. Strattera improves the executive functions of:

• Sustained attention
• Self-motivation
• Inhibition
• Reaction time, and
• Working memory

How Do You Take Strattera?

You should take Atomoxetine at the same time daily in the morning or twice per day – morning and late afternoon. Take the medicine with a full glass of water.

You may take Strattera with or without food. Do not chew, crush, break, or open a capsule; swallow it whole. Follow all your healthcare provider’s instructions.

Dosing Information

The typical adult and pediatric Strattera dose for ADHD is as described below.

Adults Dose

• Starting dose – 40 mg per day for at least 3 days.
• Maintenance dose – 80 mg per day for 2-4 weeks.  
• Maximum dose – After using Strattera at 80 mg per day for 2-4 weeks, patients who haven’t achieved an optimal response can increase the dose to 100 mg daily.

Pediatric Dose

For patients 70 kg or less:

• The initial dose is typically at 0.5 mg/kg per day orally.
• You can increase the dose to 1.2 mg/kg daily after at least 3 days of using the initial dose.
• The maximum dose is usually 1.4 mg/kg per day or 100 mg daily, whichever is less.

For patients above 70 kg:

• Start at 40 mg per day orally.
• You can increase this dose to 80 mg daily following a minimum of three days at the starting dose.
• After 2-4 weeks of taking 80 mg/day, patients who haven’t achieved an optimal response can increase the dose to 100 mg daily.

Missed Dose

In case you miss a dose, please take it as soon as you remember. However, you can skip the missed dose if it’s almost time for the next scheduled dose.

Overdose

In the event of an overdose, seek emergency medical help. Overdose symptoms may include stomach issues, dizziness, drowsiness, unusual behavior, or tremors.

Warnings

Note these warnings before and while using Strattera:

• Watch out for unfamiliar symptoms or changes in your mood. There are reports of some young people having suicidal thoughts when they first begin using this medication or when the dose is changed.
• Do not take a capsule that’s accidentally broken or open. The drug in the capsule can harm you if it gets in the eyes. If the medicine gets in your eyes, rinse them with plenty of clean water.
• Strattera could impair your reactions. Do not drive or engage in dangerous activity until you know how the drug affects you.
• Do not share Strattera with anyone, not even a person with the same condition as you. The medicine could harm them.

Side Effects of Strattera

The following are some of the commonly reported Strattera side effects:

• Nause, stomach upset, vomiting;
• Loss of appetite, dry mouth;
• Feeling tired, urination issues, mood changes;
• Impotence (trouble having an erection)

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you have any of these severe side effects:

• Allergic reactions. Common signs may include difficulty breathing and swelling of the face, throat, tongue, or lips.
• Anxiety or panic attacks or trouble sleeping.
• Feeling impulsive, being easily irritable, hostile, agitated, or having suicidal thoughts.
• Signs of heart issues, including trouble breathing, chest pain, or feeling like you may pass out.
• Psychosis symptoms including hallucinations, aggression, or paranoia.
• Painful urination or erection

Note: This is not a comprehensive list of Strattera side effects. Others may happen. Please consult your doctor for more information.

Contraindications

You should not take Strattera if you have:

• Allergy to Atomoxetine ingredient
• Narrow-angle glaucoma or adrenal gland tumor
• A history of any heart-related condition. There are reports of this drug causing heart attack, stroke, or sudden death in people with heart disease or high blood pressure.   
• Taken any MAO inhibitor (antidepressant) drug in the last 14 days. These include rasagiline, linezolid, methylene blue injection, or tranylcypromine.
• Unusual thoughts or behavior. This medication may cause new or worsening psychosis. That’s especially true for people with a history of mental illness, depression, or bipolar disorder.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Whether Strattera will harm an unborn baby is still unknown. Nevertheless, you should inform your doctor in advance if you’re pregnant or plan to get pregnant.

It may be unsafe to breastfeed while using this drug. Consult your healthcare provider about any risks.

Strattera Interaction With Other Drugs

Other medicines, including vitamin supplements, over-the-counter and prescription drugs, and herbal products, may interact with Strattera. Inform your doctor about any medicines that you might be using, particularly:

• Asthma medication
• Antidepressants
• Blood pressure medicines
• Allergy or cold medicines

Strattera Storage

You should store Strattera in a cool and dry place at room temperature, 15°C to 30°C (59 to 86°F). Keep the drug out of the reach of children and other people.

Lisinopril is a widely prescribed medication used primarily to manage high blood pressure (hypertension) and heart failure. It belongs to the class of drugs known as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, which work by relaxing blood vessels and improving blood flow. Additionally, Lisinopril is used to improve survival rates after a heart attack and to protect kidney function in patients with diabetes.

Uses of Lisinopril

Lisinopril is prescribed for various cardiovascular and renal conditions, including:

• Hypertension (high blood pressure), in which it helps lower blood pressure by preventing blood vessels from narrowing, reducing the risk of stroke and heart disease.
• In cases of heart failure, it aids in improving heart function and preventing further complications in patients with congestive heart failure.
• During post-heart attack recovery, Lisinopril is given to improve survival rates and reduce the risk of further heart complications.
• Patients with diabetic nephropathy (Kidney Protection) take Lisinopril to protect the kidneys from damage caused by high blood sugar levels.

How Lisinopril Works

Lisinopril inhibits the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), which is responsible for producing angiotensin II — a substance that causes blood vessels to tighten. When it blocks this enzyme, Lisinopril allows blood vessels to relax and widen. As a result, the blood pressure will reduce, making it easier for the heart to pump blood efficiently.

Lisinopril Dosage and Administration

The drug is available in tablet form, and you will typically take it once daily. The dosage varies based on your medical condition and response to treatment.The common dosages for Lisinopril are:

• Hypertension: 10 mg to 40 mg once daily
• Heart Failure: 5 mg to 40 mg once daily
• Post-Heart Attack: 5 mg initially, followed by 10 mg once daily
• Diabetic Kidney Disease: 10 mg to 40 mg once daily

Here are some important guidelines to follow when administering Lisinopril:

• It is advisable to take Lisinopril at the same time each day, with or without food.
• Ensure you swallow the tablet whole with water.
• You should not stop using Lisinopril abruptly without consulting a doctor, as it may lead to a sudden increase in blood pressure.

Side Effects of Lisinopril

Like any medication, Lisinopril may cause side effects. These can range from mild to severe, depending on individual response.

The common side effects include:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Fatigue
• Dry cough
• Headache
• Nausea

When serious side effects occur, you must seek medical attention immediately, especially in the following cases:

• Swelling of the face, lips, or throat (angioedema)
• Severe dizziness or fainting
• Signs of high potassium levels (irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness)
• Kidney problems (changes in urine output)

Some patients may be allergic to Lisinopril. If any severe side effects occur, you may have to discontinue the medication and consult your healthcare provider.

Contraindications and Warnings

Lisinopril may not be suitable for everyone. It is important to inform a doctor before starting the medication, especially if any of the following conditions apply:

• Pregnancy: Lisinopril can harm an unborn baby and should not be used during pregnancy.
• Kidney Disease: Patients with kidney problems should use Lisinopril with caution.
• Liver Disease: The drug may affect liver function, requiring close monitoring.
• History of Angioedema: Those who have experienced swelling of the face or throat from previous ACE inhibitors should avoid Lisinopril.

Overdose and Emergency Measures

Taking too much Lisinopril can lead to a dangerous drop in blood pressure and other serious symptoms, including:

• Extreme dizziness or fainting
• Rapid or slow heartbeat
• Difficulty breathing

In case of an overdose, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center. Also, if you missed your dosage, contact your doctor to prevent consuming a double dose.

Drug Interactions

Lisinopril may interact with other medications, leading to increased risks of side effects. Inform your doctor if you are taking:

• Diuretics (Water Pills): May increase the risk of low blood pressure and dehydration.
• Potassium Supplements or Potassium-Sparing Diuretics: Can lead to dangerously high potassium levels.
• NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Naproxen): May reduce the effectiveness of Lisinopril and cause kidney problems.
• Diabetes Medications: Lisinopril may affect blood sugar levels, requiring adjustments in diabetes treatment.

Lisinopril and Alcohol

Alcohol can lower blood pressure further, leading to dizziness or fainting when combined with Lisinopril. It is recommended to limit or avoid alcohol consumption while taking this medication.

Storage and Handling

The guidelines for storing and handling Lisinopril are as follows:

• Store Lisinopril at room temperature (between 15°C and 30°C), away from moisture and direct sunlight.
• Store the medicine in its original box and out of reach of kids.
• Do not take expired drug; put of it safely as directed by a pharmacist.

Conclusion

Lisinopril is an effective and widely used medication for managing hypertension, heart failure, and kidney protection in diabetic patients. However, it is essential to take it under medical supervision, follow dosage guidelines, and be aware of potential side effects and drug interactions. If you experience any severe reactions, seek medical assistance immediately.

For personalized advice regarding Lisinopril, consult a healthcare professional.

Prednisone is a prescription medicine utilized in the treatment of various autoimmune diseases and inflammatory conditions. It is used to suppress the immune system in order to reduce inflammation when the immune system is in an overactive state. Prednisone is a pro-drug that needs to be converted to its more active form — Prednisolone — to exert its effects. It belongs to a class of drugs known as glucocorticoids and comes in different brand names such as Deltasone and Rayos. You can find this medication as a 20 mg white tablet.

Uses of Prednisone

Doctors prescribe Prednisone for the following:

• Allergic disorders
• Arthritis
• Skin conditions
• Lupus erythematosus
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• Psoriasis
• Rheumatic disorders
• Severe tuberculosis
• Thyroiditis
• Ulcerative colitis
• Asthma
• Hypercalcemia (high blood calcium) due to cancer and adrenal insufficiency

Prednisone can be used for other purposes not listed above.

How Does Prednisone Work, and Why is it so Effective?

Though inflammation is a complex phenomenon, Prednisone handles it effectively. For this drug to be useful to the body, it must be converted to Prednisolone by an enzyme in the liver called 11 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase.

By binding to cell glucocorticoid receptors, prednisolone (the active form of Prednisone), operates to impede riotous cells and abolish the expression of inflammatory mediators. As a result, Prednisone decreases inflammation, slows down an overactive immune system, and takes up the role of cortisol (its natural analog) in modulating inflammation.

Precautions

Patients should adhere to these warnings before consuming Prednisone:

• This medicine is a steroid and can weaken your immune system, thereby making you more susceptible to sickness. Hence, you should avoid people who are sick or have an infection when taking Prednisone.
• Do not take this drug if you have a fungal infection that would require the use of oral antifungals.
• Stay away from this medicine if you are allergic to Prednisone. However, to be certain that this drug is safe for you, inform your doctor if you have any of the following:

○ Thyroid disorders

○ Muscular disorders (Myasthenia gravis)

○ Tuberculosis

○ Kidney disorders

○ Diabetes

○ Any diarrhea-causing illness

○ Osteoporosis

○ Liver disorders

○ Eye disorders like (herpes eye infections, glaucoma, or cataracts)

○ Malaria

○ History of stomach bleeding, ulcer, or ulcerative colitis

○ Depression or other mental disorders

○ Hypokalemia

○ Hypertension or heart disease

• Prolonged use of this drug can predispose you to osteoporosis, especially if you smoke, are calcium and vitamin D deficient, are obese, or have a family history of osteoporosis.
• Do not take this drug during your first trimester. It can cause low birth weight and birth defects in children if the mother takes it during her first trimester. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant while using Prednisone.
• Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding as the drug can pass through breast milk and could harm a nursing baby.

How to Take Prednisone

The instructions for use are on your prescription sheet, and you should take them accordingly. It is important to consume Prednisone with a meal. Also, the delayed-release tablet should not be crushed or chewed but swallowed whole. If using the suspension, measure the dosage with the device supplied with the drug.

While your doctor may change your dosage if you suddenly fall ill or have the need to go for surgery, do not stop taking this drug prematurely. Also, do not change your dose schedule without your doctor’s knowledge/advice. You should resist the urge to take Prednisone for a longer period than prescribed.

Note that the Prednisone dose you will consume depends on the symptoms you present and whether your treatment duration is long or short-term. However, the dose for adults is between 5 mg to 60 mg daily. Your doctor may adjust the dose until best results are achieved.

For pediatric patients, the Prednisone dose may be reduced and administered based on age and body weight.

Side Effects of Prednisone

Seek emergency medical attention if you experience side effects due to allergies to Prednisone such as difficulty in breathing, swellings (lips, throat, face, or tongue), and hives. Other common side effects of this drug include:

• Insomnia, changes in mood
• Wounds not healing quickly
• Headaches, dizziness with a spinning sensation
• Increased appetite accompanied by weight gain
• Changes in the location/distribution of fat in different parts of the body
• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Vision problems, muscle pains

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:

• Shortness of breath
• Coughing blood
• Severe high blood pressure
• Convulsions, blurry vision
• More frequent urination, extreme thirst, confusion, muscle weakness

Missed Doses and Overdose

You should skip missed doses to prevent consuming multiple doses of Prednisone unless the time for your next dose is not close. But if you suspect that you have taken more than the prescribed dose, call the poison control team in your area.

Drug Interactions

Prednisone interacts with many drugs. However, you should inform your doctor of all drugs you are using or have consumed previously. Below is a list of some drugs to avoid when taking Prednisone.

• St. John’s worth
• Antibiotics
• Antifungals
• Blood thinners
• Diuretics
• Antiretrovirals
• Birth control pills

Doxycycline is an antibiotic medication in the class of tetracyclines. It also has an anti-inflammatory effect. This drug is available in capsule and tablet forms but can also be administered by injection. Doxycycline is a prescription-only medicine.

What is Doxycycline Used For?

Doxycycline helps in the treatment of bacterial infections, including:

• Acne
• Respiratory and urinary tract infections
• Gum diseases
• Gonorrhea and other sexually transmitted infections
• Eye infections

This medication is also used to treat parasitic infections, such as malaria. It’s sold as generic medicine but also under different brand names, including Vibramycin-D, Periostat, and Efracea. However, Doxycycline is the active ingredient. It doesn’t matter which brand you’re prescribed. The medication works in the same way to fight the infection.

How to Take Doxycycline

Take Doxycycline exactly as your doctor has prescribed it. In most cases, you should take the medicine with a full glass (8 ounces) of cool water. But many Doxycycline brands may also be taken with milk or food or immediately after eating. That helps to minimize the risk of some side effects.

Once you take the medicine, try to sit or stand upright for at least 30 minutes. It may help to reduce the chance of experiencing esophagus irritation (oesophagitis). If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it’s nearly time for the next scheduled dose. Avoid taking extra medicine to cover up for the missed dose.

Always finish the Doxycycline dosage as prescribed by your physician. Do not stop even if you already feel better. Taking the entire dosage will ensure your infection is adequately treated. It will also prevent complications, such as antibiotic resistance.

Note: Doxycycline can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, raising your risk of sunburn. So, if you’re taking this drug, wear clothing and a hat to protect exposed skin when outdoors. Using sunscreen with at least SPF 30 can also help.

Doxycycline Storage and Disposal

You should store Doxycycline at room temperature and away from light and moisture. Dispose of any unused medicine after the expiration date on the label. Expired Doxycycline can damage your kidneys.

Doxycycline Side Effects

The most common Doxycycline side effects include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Stomach upset
• Darkened skin color
• Mild skin rash or itching
• Mild virginal itching or discharge

The medication may also cause severe side effects. Some of these effects may happen several weeks after you start taking Doxycycline. Contact your health provider if you experience one or more of the following:

• Serious stomach pain
• Throat irritation and trouble swallowing
• Little or no urination
• Symptoms of low white blood cell counts, such as fever, pale skin, body aches, chills, or swollen glands.
• Severe headaches, dizziness, ringing in the ears, pain behind the eyes, and vision problems.
• Severe allergic reactions to the drug, such as swelling in the face or difficulty in breathing.
• Serious skin reaction, including skin pain and purple skin rash that spreads, causing blistering and peeling.

Like any other antibiotic medication, Doxycycline can also cause diarrhea. Please get in touch with your doctor immediately if you have diarrhea that is bloody or watery. That may be a sign of a new infection. Do not take anti-diarrhea drugs unless instructed by your physician.

Note: The above is not a full list of side effects. Please read Consumer Medicine Information (CMI) for your prescribed Doxycycline brand or speak to your health provider.

Doxycycline Interaction With Other Drugs

Doxycycline may interact with other drugs, increasing the risk of side effects. These include over-the-counter and prescription medicines, herbal products, and vitamins. Inform your healthcare providers about any medicines you’re using now. Let them also know about any medication that you start or stop using.

Doxycycline may also make some oral contraceptive pills less effective. If you’re taking oral contraceptive pills, talk to your doctor. The health provider may recommend using another form of contraception while taking Doxycycline. Also, avoid using any other antibiotics with Doxycycline unless instructed by your doctor.

Contraindications

You should not take Doxycycline if you’re:

• Allergic to the drug. Avoid taking Doxycycline or other tetracycline antibiotics if you’re allergic to them.
• More than 16 weeks pregnant. Taking Doxycycline while pregnant may affect bone and tooth development in the unborn baby. Please tell your physician if you become pregnant while using this drug.
• Breastfeeding. Doxycycline can pass into the breast milk, affecting tooth and bone development in your nursing infant.
• A child under eight years old. Doxycycline can cause irreversible graying or yellowing of the teeth in children under eight years. Children should only use this medication in life-threatening situations.

When your doctor prescribes Doxycycline, please inform them if you have ever had liver or kidney disease, increased pressure in the skull, asthma, or sulfite allergy. Let them know if you also take seizure medicine, isotretinoin, or a blood thinner like Warfarin (Coumadin).

FAQs

Can You Take Doxycycline to Prevent Malaria?

Yes, Doxycycline is one of the best antibiotic medicines that you can take to prevent malaria. If you’re traveling to a malaria-endemic area, take this drug 24-48 hours before the journey.

 

Neurontin is a prescription anti-epileptic medication that is also used as an anticonvulsant. It is also known as Gabapentin, Horizant, or Gralise and belongs to a class of drugs called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) analogs. Neurontin comes as capsules or tablets, having its name and dosage imprinted on it. Also, it is available in liquid forms for pediatric patients.

Uses of Neurontin (Gabapentin)

• Neurontin is used in the treatment of nerve pains due to herpes viral infection or shingles (herpes zoster), that is, postherpetic neuralgia.
• It is also used for the prevention/control of partial seizures in adults and children who are at least 3 years of age.
• Another brand of Gabapentin, known as Horizant, is approved for the treatment of various forms of primary restless leg syndrome.

How Does Neurontin Work?

For seizures to occur or for one to feel pain, there is usually an excitation of nerve cells (neurons) in the brain. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) helps in reducing the excitability of these neurons by calming them. As a result, their transmission of pain or seizure signals is reduced. Neurontin, being an analog of GABA, exhibits similar biological effects.

Precautions

Patients should adhere to the following instructions before and while consuming Neurontin:

• Do not use this drug if you are allergic to Neurontin. Also, do not stop using it suddenly even if you start feeling fine.
• Neurontin is believed to cause life-threatening breathing problems in people who have a pre-existing respiratory disorder.
• Do well to inform your doctor if you have any history of:
  • Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) or another breathing or lung disorder
  • Thoughts of suicide, mood swings, and episodes of depression
  • Drug addiction
  • Kidney impairment
  • Heart disorders
  • Seizures
  • Diabetes
  • Liver diseases
  • For patients with Willis-Ekbom disease or Restless leg syndrome, if you work on the night shift or are a day sleeper
• It is important to tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant while taking Neurontin.
• If you are a breastfeeding mother, your doctor will have to determine how safe it is for you to use this drug while still breastfeeding. Neurontin should only be taken by breastfeeding mothers when the benefits outweigh the risks.
• Avoid administering Neurontin to children who are less than 3 years of age.

Neurontin Dosing and Administration

You should take this medicine following your physician’s prescription. However, it is important to avoid consuming less or more than necessary. Neurontin is an oral medicine and should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. Also, you can take it with or without a meal.

If you need to break a tablet to get the required dose, do it evenly and take one half while ensuring the remainder is well covered. You should consume any broken tablet as soon as possible, preferably for the next dose. When using the liquid forms, always ensure you measure the volume accurately with the inserted dosing device.

The body absorbs different forms of Gabapentin differently. Hence, avoid switching from one brand or form to another without your doctor’s approval. Neurontin is best taken at bedtime to minimize the side effects.

The dose of Neurontin to take is dependent on the severity of the condition as well as weight of the individual. In children, dosage is mainly based on weight. Your doctor may increase the dose as you progress with therapy. Also, people who have kidney or liver impairment may require dosage adjustments as determined by their Doctor.

Dosage for Treatment of Epilepsy in Adults: The usual starting dose for adults is 300 mg once on the first day, 300 mg twice on day two and 300 mg thrice on day three. The maintenance dose for adults is 300-600 mg three times daily. However, the maximum daily dose should not exceed 3600 mg in 3 intervals.

Dosage for Treatment of Epilepsy in Pediatrics: In children 3-12 years of age, the initial dose for epilepsy is 10-15 mg/kg/day in three divided doses. The initial dose for those who are 12-17 years old is 300 mg once on day one, 300 mg twice on day two and 300 mg thrice on day 3. The maintenance dose in children >12 years is 900-1800 mg while the maximum daily dose is 3600 mg in three divided doses.

Dosage for Postherpetic Neuralgia: The initial dose in adults is the same as in epilepsy. However, the maximum daily dose is 1800 mg.

Neurontin Side Effects

The common side effects are:

• Dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Topiramate
• Ambien
• Cymbalta
• Clonazepam

Neurontin interacts with the following diseases:

• Kidney dysfunction
• Hemodialysis
• Suicidal tendency
• Drug dependency

Missed Dose and Overdose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can remember. But you can skip the missed dose if the time for your next dose is close. Also, if you suspect overdose or poisoning, contact the poison control center immediately.

Storage

Store in a cool dry place, away from children and pets.