Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking gabapentin as follows:
- Gabapentin use can result in common general constitutional symptoms such as, nausea and vomiting. Taking dose of gabapentin with a glass of water, after having some food or a snack can help avoid having unpleasant gastrointestinal symptoms with the medication.
- Gabapentin intake can induce extreme dry mouth and constipation. Sucking on a sugar free hard candy can help with symptomatic relief of dry mouth. Proper hydration measures and compliance with daily fluid intake recommendations can help with relief from constipation. If you experience any further bothersome constipation, report it to your physician for a recommendation on laxative/stool softener use. Observing compliance with fiber intake recommendations in the diet can also help with preventing episodes of constipation with the medication.
- Gabapentin needs acidic environment in the stomach to be absorbed. Use of an antacid can alter this environment in the stomach, thus hindering the absorption of gabapentin and compromising the therapeutic benefit. Avoid using any antacid concurrently with gabapentin. Observing a 2 – 3 hour window between gabapentin and antacid intake can help avoid this complication.
