Gabantin Plus Tablet (10 Tab)

GABANTIN PLUS TABLET is a medication manufactured by SUN PHARMA LABORATORIES LTD. It is primarily prescribed for the treatment of neuropathic pain and epilepsy.

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Name

• Brand Name: GABANTIN PLUS TABLET

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Composition

GABANTIN PLUS TABLET contains a combination of two active ingredients:

• Gabapentin: 100 mg (an anticonvulsant)
• Methylcobalamin: 500 mcg (Mecobalamin or vitamin B12)

Gabapentin works by binding to specific sites on voltage-gated calcium channels, which helps to relieve nerve pain and reduce the risk of seizures by balancing chemical messengers in the brain. Methylcobalamin, a coenzyme form of vitamin B12, aids in the rejuvenation and protection of damaged nerve cells by producing myelin, a protective covering for nerve fibers. It also supports cell multiplication, blood formation, and protein synthesis.

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Uses

GABANTIN PLUS TABLET is primarily used to treat:

• Neuropathic Pain: Nerve pain caused by conditions such as diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage due to diabetes), post-herpetic neuralgia (pain after shingles/herpes zoster infection), and spinal cord injury. It helps reduce associated symptoms like mood changes, sleep problems, and tiredness.
• Epilepsy: Specifically, partial seizures by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain and calming overactive nerves.

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Dosage and Administration

• Take GABANTIN PLUS TABLET exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
• It can be taken orally with or without food, preferably at bedtime.
• For consistent effectiveness, it is recommended to take the medicine at the same time each day.
• Do not chew, crush, or break the tablet; swallow it whole.
• Do not exceed the prescribed dose.
• Do not stop taking the medication abruptly without consulting your doctor, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms and worsen your condition.

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Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

• Dizziness
• Sleepiness or drowsiness
• Tiredness or fatigue
• Nausea and vomiting
• Peripheral edema (swelling)
• Ataxia (loss of coordination)
• Blurred vision
• Fever
• Nystagmus (involuntary eye movement)
• Dyspepsia, back pain, dyspnea, tremor, irritability, dry mouth.

These side effects are usually mild and temporary, resolving over time. However, consult your doctor if they persist or worsen.

Serious Side Effects (Seek medical attention if experienced):

• Unusual changes in mood or behavior, new or worsening depression, or suicidal thoughts.
• Agitation or restlessness.
• Breathing difficulties, depression, coma, and abnormal heartbeats (in case of overdose).
• Withdrawal symptoms (anxiety, fatigue, sweating, vomiting, depression, seizures, hallucinations) if the medicine is stopped suddenly.

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Precautions

• Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking this medicine, as it can increase dizziness and sleepiness.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor before taking GABANTIN PLUS TABLET if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. It may be unsafe during these periods.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: This medicine can cause drowsiness and dizziness. Do not drive or engage in activities that require mental alertness until you know how it affects you.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have a history of heart problems, bipolar syndrome, nervous system disorders, kidney disease, or liver disease, as dose adjustments may be necessary. Gabapentin is primarily excreted by the kidneys.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all prescription, non-prescription drugs, and herbal products you are currently taking. Antacids may reduce the absorption of Gabantin Plus Tablet. Interactions with drugs like Duloxetine and Buprenorphine have been noted.
• Children: Not recommended for children under three or six years of age as safety and effectiveness have not been established.

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Storage

• Store GABANTIN PLUS TABLET in a cool and dry place.
• Protect it from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture.
• Keep it out of the sight and reach of children.
• Store below 25°C or 30°C.

GABANTIN PLUS TABLET (10 TAB) contains a combination of two active ingredients: Gabapentin and Methylcobalamin (a form of Vitamin B12). This medication is primarily used to manage neuropathic pain and certain neurological conditions.

Here are some frequently asked questions about GABANTIN PLUS TABLET:

What is GABANTIN PLUS TABLET used for?

GABANTIN PLUS TABLET is used to treat neuropathic pain (nerve pain) caused by conditions such as diabetic neuropathy, shingles (post-herpetic neuralgia), and spinal cord injury. It also helps manage partial seizures (epilepsy) and restless leg syndrome.

How does GABANTIN PLUS TABLET work?

The medicine works through its two active ingredients. Gabapentin, an anticonvulsant, modulates the activity of calcium channels in nerve cells, which helps reduce the release of neurotransmitters involved in pain signaling and stabilizes abnormal electrical activity in the brain to control seizures. Methylcobalamin, a form of Vitamin B12, supports nerve health by aiding in the production of myelin, a protective sheath around nerve fibers, and promotes the regeneration and repair of damaged nerve cells.

What is the usual dosage for GABANTIN PLUS TABLET?

The dosage of GABANTIN PLUS TABLET is determined by your doctor based on your medical condition. It can be taken with or without food and should be swallowed whole with water. Typically, treatment may start with a small dose, gradually increasing over a few days. For example, one common titration involves starting with one tablet on Day 1, two tablets (divided twice daily) on Day 2, and three tablets (divided three times daily) on Day 3, potentially increasing up to two tablets three times a day. The average effective dose of methylcobalamin is often 1500 mcg/day. Do not exceed the prescribed daily dose.

What are the possible side effects of GABANTIN PLUS TABLET?

Common side effects may include dizziness, sleepiness, tiredness, uncoordinated body movements, nausea, and vomiting. These side effects are usually mild and temporary, often resolving over time. If they persist or worsen, consult your doctor. More serious, though rare, side effects can include severe allergic reactions, mood changes (including suicidal thoughts), unusual eye movements, muscle weakness, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.

Is GABANTIN PLUS TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

GABANTIN PLUS TABLET is generally not recommended during pregnancy unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks, as there is limited information on its safety for the baby. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor, who may recommend a high dose of folic acid.

Gabapentin, one of the active ingredients, passes into breast milk in small amounts, and generally, no adverse effects have been reported in breastfed infants. However, caution is advised, and your doctor should be consulted. Monitor the infant for any signs of unusual sleepiness or feeding issues.

Can GABANTIN PLUS TABLET be taken with other medications?

GABANTIN PLUS TABLET can interact with several medications. It may interact with painkillers (like hydrocodone, acetaminophen, opioids), antidepressants (such as citalopram, duloxetine, fluoxetine), certain antibiotics (like tetracycline), and other anticonvulsants (like pregabalin). Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium should be taken at least two hours before or after GABANTIN PLUS TABLET, as they can reduce gabapentin absorption. Always inform your doctor about all prescription, non-prescription drugs, and herbal products you are taking.

What precautions should be taken with GABANTIN PLUS TABLET?

Avoid alcohol consumption while taking this medicine as it can increase dizziness and sleepiness. Use caution when driving or operating machinery, as it can cause drowsiness and affect coordination. Patients with kidney or liver problems, heart problems, bipolar syndrome, or suicidal tendencies should inform their doctor. Do not stop taking the medication abruptly, as it can lead to withdrawal symptoms or worsen your condition; dosage should be reduced gradually under medical supervision.

What happens if a dose of GABANTIN PLUS TABLET is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.

How should GABANTIN PLUS TABLET be stored?

Store GABANTIN PLUS TABLET in the container it came in, tightly closed, and according to the instructions on the pack or label. Keep it protected from light and moisture, at a temperature not exceeding 25°C or 30°C, and away from direct sunlight. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.