Gabapentin-SR 450mg Tablet

Q1: What conditions does Gabapentin-SR 450mg treat?

Gabapentin-SR 450mg is used for neuropathic pain including post-herpetic neuralgia (pain after shingles) and diabetic peripheral neuropathy, as adjunctive therapy for partial-onset seizures in adults, and for restless legs syndrome. It is also used off-label for fibromyalgia and certain anxiety conditions.

Q2: How does Gabapentin work?

Gabapentin binds to the alpha-2-delta subunit of voltage-gated calcium channels in the nervous system. This reduces calcium influx at nerve terminals, decreasing the release of excitatory neurotransmitters such as glutamate. The result is reduced pain signal transmission and decreased neuronal excitability.

Q3: How long does it take for Gabapentin-SR 450mg to work?

For neuropathic pain, some patients notice improvement within 1–2 weeks, though full therapeutic benefit often takes 3–4 weeks of consistent use at the therapeutic dose. For seizure control, response is monitored over several weeks as the dose is titrated upward gradually.

Q4: What is the correct dose and frequency for Gabapentin-SR 450mg?

Gabapentin is typically titrated starting at 300mg on day 1, increasing to 300mg twice daily on day 2, then 300mg three times daily. The 450mg SR tablet may be taken once or twice daily depending on the prescriber's instructions. Maximum doses and titration schedule must be directed by a physician.

Q5: Should I take Gabapentin-SR 450mg with food or on an empty stomach?

Gabapentin-SR can be taken with or without food. Taking it with food may reduce stomach discomfort. Do not crush, split, or chew sustained-release tablets — swallow them whole to maintain the controlled-release mechanism.

Q6: Can I stop taking Gabapentin-SR when my pain improves?

No. Never stop Gabapentin abruptly. Sudden discontinuation can cause withdrawal symptoms including anxiety, insomnia, nausea, sweating, and, in epilepsy patients, rebound seizures. Your doctor will create a gradual tapering schedule when it is time to discontinue.

Q7: What are the most common side effects of Gabapentin-SR?

Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, fatigue, ataxia (loss of coordination), dry mouth, and peripheral oedema (ankle swelling). These often improve after the first few weeks. More serious effects include suicidal thoughts, respiratory depression (especially with opioids), and severe allergic reactions.

Q8: Is Gabapentin-SR 450mg safe for children?

Gabapentin is approved in children aged 3 and older for adjunctive treatment of partial seizures, at weight-based doses. The 450mg SR formulation is intended for adults. Paediatric dosing requires specialist supervision and is not interchangeable with adult formulations.

Q9: Can pregnant women take Gabapentin-SR?

Gabapentin should be used in pregnancy only when clearly necessary and under specialist supervision. Animal studies have shown developmental toxicity. Data in human pregnancy are limited. If you become pregnant while taking gabapentin, inform your doctor immediately — do not stop suddenly.

Q10: What should I do if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time of your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your normal schedule. Do not take two doses together. For epilepsy, missed doses carry a risk of breakthrough seizure — contact your doctor if you miss multiple doses.

Q11: How should Gabapentin-SR 450mg be stored?

Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Do not store in a bathroom. Keep out of reach of children. Swallow SR tablets whole — do not split or crush. Do not use after the expiry date.

Q12: Do I need a prescription for Gabapentin-SR 450mg?

Yes. Gabapentin is a controlled or prescription-only medicine in most countries due to its potential for misuse and important drug interactions. A physician should assess the indication, dosing, and monitor for side effects throughout treatment.