Posted by Cam W. on May 22, 2000, at 11:36:17
In reply to Neurontin - Dosages and Side Effects ???, posted by SLS on May 22, 2000, at 9:36:24
> What dosages of Neurontin seem to work for bipolar disorder or depression?
> Do people respond to as little as 600 - 900 mg. ?I have seen doses from 100mg daily to 2400mg daily (have heard of 3600mg daily). Larry Ereshefsky says that gabapentin has a saturable absorption and that single doses of more than 600mg at a time are not appreciably absorbed (the transporter mechanism from the small intestine to the bloodstream becomes saturated). Gabapentin also has a short half-life (6h), therefore it must be taken about 3 to 4 times daily to maintain adequate blood levels (3 times daily usually okay). Avoid antacids with magnesium and aluminum (eg Maalox), as they can decrease gabapentin absorption by about 25%.
> What happens if you increase the dosage of Neurontin too quickly?Quick titration can lead to more pronounced side effects and interupt your daily routine (eg somnolence, dizziness, ataxia, fatigue, tremor and nystagmus).
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> What is a good schedule to increase the dosage?Neurontin can be titrated rather quickly (eg Day 1 - 300mg one dose, Day 2 - 300mg twice daily, Day 3 - 300mg three times daily). I have seen it done quicker and slower. Let the side effects be your guide.
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> Has anyone with bipolar depression responded well to it?I have seen it work in combination with other mood stabilizers (esp. Depakote, lithium and Lamictal). Neurontin is not appreciably metabolized so there is little chance of pharmacokinetic interactions. It does not work well on it's own, but I have seen people respond to monotherapy in biolar disorder.
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> Thank-you for any input. I really appreciate it.
>
Scott dude, you'd do the same for us. - Cam
poster:Cam W.
thread:34279
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000517/msgs/34287.html