Neurontin and Its Off-Label Use in Bipolar Disorder

Neurontin and Its Off-Label Use in Bipolar Disorder Bipolar Disorder Treatment Medications Print Neurontin and Its Off-Label Use in Bipolar Disorder By Marcia Purse Marcia Purse is a mental health writer and bipolar disorder advocate who brings strong research skills and personal experiences to her writing. Learn about our editorial policy Marcia Purse Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Daniel B. Block, MD on January 30, 2020 twitter linkedin Daniel B. Block, MD, is an award-winning, board-certified psychiatrist who operates a private practice in Pennsylvania. Learn about our Medical Review Board Daniel B. Block, MD Updated on February 17, 2020 Bipolar Disorder Overview Symptoms & Diagnosis Causes Treatment Living With In Children Your Rights Peter Dazeley/Getty Images Neurontin (gabapentin) is sometimes prescribed off-label to treat  bipolar disorder. Lets review the basics on Neurontin, including side effects and whether science supports its use as a mood stabilizer. What Medical Conditions Is Neurontin Approved to Treat? Neurontin is a medication  approved by the FDA to treat partial seizures and postherpetic neuralgia, pain that remains after someone has  shingles.   Potential Serious Side Effects According to the FDA, Neurontin may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior.?? Patients treated with any anti-seizure medications, like Neurontin, should be monitored for the emergence or worsening of depression, suicidal thoughts or behavior, and/or any unusual changes in mood or behavior. Neurontin may also cause a serious allergic reaction that can impact a persons liver or blood cells, but alone, it does not cause jaundice or elevated liver enzymes. In fact, it is known to be a liver-friendly drug. Signs of an allergic reaction may include: RashTrouble breathingFeverSwollen glands that dont get betterSwelling of the face, lips, throat, or tongue   Symptoms or signs of liver or blood cell problems may include: Yellowing of the skin or eyesOut of the ordinary bruising or bleedingSevere fatigueOut of the ordinary muscle painFrequent infections Neurontin can also make a person feel dizzy or sleepy. This can affect their driving abilities. According to the FDA and manufacturer, its important to discuss with your doctor whether its safe for you to drive while on Neurontin. Its also advised to avoid alcohol and not take other medications with Neurontin until you speak with your doctor, as this can worsen your sleepiness.  People with renal (kidney) Potential Common Side Effects Neurontin may cause serious side effects, including:?? Loss of balance or coordinationFatigue and/or drowsinessInfection with virusesFeverJerky movementsNausea and vomitingDifficulty speakingDouble visionTremorUnusual eye movements Controversy in Treating Bipolar Disorder While a number of anti-seizure medications, like Tegretol (carbamazepine), valproate, and Lamictal (lamotrigine), are approved by the FDA for treating bipolar disorder, Neurontin (gabapentin) is not.   In 1993, Neurontin was approved by the FDA for the treatment of partial complex seizures, in combination with another anti-seizure medication. Neurontin was marketed by its manufacturer for off-label use in treating bipolar disorder, despite the fact that there was not sufficient scientific data to back it up. A lawsuit resulted because it was believed that the medication was marketed fraudulently for unapproved uses.   Does Science Support Neurontins Use for Bipolar Disorder? A 2009 review in General Hospital Psychiatry, regarding gabapentin as a mood stabilizer, found no reports of studies meeting high-quality criteria â€" and the results of those studies examined were mixed, favoring a negative role for gabapentins use in treating bipolar disorder.   That being said, according to a 2007 review study in the Annals of General Psychiatry,  Neurontin can be used as a supplementary therapy for the treatment of anxiety in patients with bipolar disorder.   What Should I Do? Its always a good idea to be knowledgeable about your medications. That being said, do not stop taking a medication without first speaking with your doctor. Withdrawal symptoms can occur. While the science is not robust regarding gabapentins effectiveness in treating bipolar disorder, it may just work for youâ€"each person has to evaluate his or her response with their doctor. How Bipolar Disorder Is Treated