Neurontin is a medication designed to treat seizures or convulsions. It has another use, which is for treatment of burning pain of the nerves that people sometimes experience for long periods after they experience shingles. Neurontin should be taken three times a day, every single day, in order to effectively control seizures. As with any kind of medication, there are negative side effects and risks associated with Neurontin.
Common Side Effects
Some side effects associated with Neurontin are relatively common and generally not cause for alarm. These side effects include infections, vomiting, nausea, coordination issues, drowsiness, dizziness, feelings of being lightheaded, fluid retention or swelling in the legs, hands, arms or feet, and bizarre, unexplained movements of the eyes. These side effects occur in between 8.3% and 28% of Neurontin users.
Less Common Side Effects
There are several somewhat less common side effects that occur from some Neurontin users (these side effects happen to between 1% and 7% of people who use the medication). These less common side effects are tremors, blurred vision, speech issues, memory loss, heartburn, indigestion, back pain, sore throat, bronchitis, accidental injury, dry mouth, digestive issues, anxiety, having trouble walking, twitching, pink eye, high blood sugar, difficult with concentration, fatigue, weakness, ear infection, hot flashes and flushing. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately.
Potentially Serious Side Effects
There are also some side effects of Neurontin that are rare and potentially very serious. These severe side effects include feelings of hostility, depression, aggression, severe confusion, severe dizziness, suicidal thoughts or behavior and allergic reaction signs (hives, rashes or itching). If you notice any of these symptoms, you seek medical help immediately.
Extremely Rare Side Effects
Other side effects are potentially linked to Neurontin, however, since less than 1% of people taking Neurontin experience them, it is unsure if they are direct results of the medication. These side effects include ulcers, high cholesterol, hemorrhoids, weight loss, "hangover" feelings, arthritis, sexual dysfunction, sun sensitivity, snoring, psoriasis, kidney stones, thyroid issues, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), hiatal hernia and various others. If you notice these symptoms, consult a doctor about whether they are related to the use of Neurontin.
Warning
One side effect of Neurontin is feeling very drowsy and much less alert than usual, especially in the beginning stages of using the medication. If you combine Neurontin with morphine, you increase the odds of experiencing the "drowsy" side effects. You should avoid driving or operating machinery or any task that requires mental alertness when you notice these symptoms.
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