Gabapentinoids

Gabapentinoids

What are gabapentinoids?

• Two drugs were originally shown to be effective in treating seizures.
  • The drugs are gabapentin and pregabalin.
• It was later discovered that these drugs were helpful for treating some types of chronic pain.
• These drugs are approved in the US for treatment of neuropathic pain and fibromyalgia.
  • They are more widely used to treat other types of chronic pain, and even acute pain (for example, in the period following surgery).
• These drugs are available by prescription only.

How do gabapentinoids work?

• Gabapentinoids are known to bind to a specific receptor in the body.
  • This receptor is the alpha-2-delta calcium channel receptor.
• The drug reduces the excitability of the nervous system when it binds to these receptors.
• Hyperexcitability of the nervous system is thought to contribute to many types of pain.
• The excitability-reducing effects of these drugs can occur in several areas of the nervous system:
  • nerves, spinal cord, brain.

What are the names of some gabapentinoids?

• Gabapentin (Neurontin)
• Pregabalin (Lyrica)

Risks

Some short-term side effects of these drugs include:

• drowsiness
• dizziness
• swelling of hands and feet
• trouble concentrating
• increased appetite
• weight gain
• dry mouth
• blurred vision

Less common side effects include:

• A severe allergic reaction.
  • Stop taking this medicine and seek emergency medical help if you have hives or blisters on your skin, trouble breathing, or swelling in your face, mouth, or throat.
• Some people have thoughts about suicide while taking these drugs.
  • Stay alert to changes in your mood or symptoms. Report any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor.

People can become addicted to these drugs.

• They are not as addictive as many other classes of drugs like opioids.
• These drugs should not be used (or used with caution) in individuals who have a history of addiction to other substances or other substance use issues.