In the quest to find effective preventive migraine treatments, healthcare providers sometimes prescribe medications “off-label.”
Gabapentin is one such drug.
How Gabapentin Works for Migraine Prevention
The precise mechanism of gabapentins action is not well known.
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It is believed that gabapentin blocks calcium channels, modulating the release of excitatory neurotransmitters.
Gabapentin may be used alone or with other medications when necessary.
A 2016 study found that gabapentin showed some benefits for migraine headaches.
The medication is available as an immediate-release oral tablet, an extended-release oral tablet, and an oral solution.
It can be taken with or without food.
If you forget to take your dose, take it as soon as you remember.
Never venture to catch up by taking two capsules at once.
Never stop taking gabapentin without your healthcare provider’s approval.
You will need to wean yourself off it slowly to avoid potentially serious side effects.
A very serious allergic reaction to gabapentin is rare.
Interactions
Drinking alcohol may make some side effects of gabapentin more severe.
Gabapentin may affect the results.
If you have chronic kidney disease, check with your healthcare provider before using gabapentin.
Summary
Gabapentin is an anti-seizure drug that is sometimes prescribed to help prevent migraines.
However, there is conflicting research on whether it’s effective for this use.
It may also be prescribed for conditions such as diabetic neuropathy, restless leg syndrome, and fibromyalgia.
Gabapentin should be avoided by people who are pregnant or have myasthenia gravis.
Your healthcare provider may adjust your dosage if you have kidney disease to prevent serious adverse effects.
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