People using one of the most commonly prescribed painkillers in the UK have received a reminder from the NHS about potential serious side effects that should be reported to a doctor promptly. Gabapentin, a prescription-only painkiller, is specifically designed to alleviate nerve pain associated with conditions like diabetes, epilepsy, shingles, and restless legs syndrome.
Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is prevalent in the UK, affecting around 10% of adults, with approximately 2% experiencing bothersome symptoms nearly every night. This equates to about 2.2 million individuals in the UK who may encounter this condition at some point in their lives.
Treatment for RLS includes medications like pregabalin and gabapentin, known as alpha-2-delta ligands. The choice of medication and dosage varies based on symptom severity and overall health, with some individuals requiring lifelong treatment.
Gabapentin is among the most frequently prescribed drugs in the UK, available in tablet, capsule, or liquid form for adults and children aged six and above. While most users do not experience side effects, some rare cases have been reported.
According to the NHS, common side effects of gabapentin, affecting more than one in 100 individuals, are usually mild and temporary. However, severe side effects like self-harming thoughts, persistent swollen glands, and prolonged stomach pain are rare occurrences.
Long-term use of gabapentin carries a minimal risk of addiction, emphasizing the importance of regular check-ups while on this medication. The NHS advises against combining gabapentin with herbal remedies or supplements that may exacerbate dizziness or drowsiness, emphasizing the need to inform healthcare providers of all medications being taken.
The prescribed dosage of gabapentin depends on the underlying condition, typically ranging from 900mg to 3,600mg daily for adults and older children, split into three doses a day. For younger children, dosages are determined based on body weight.
In certain cases, healthcare providers may consider alternative treatments to gabapentin for patients based on specific factors.