Gabapentin: Side Effects, Uses & Monitoring
Postherpetic Neuralgia Gabapentin tablets USP are indicated for the management of postherpetic neuralgia in adults.
- Data source
- FDA labeling via NIH DailyMed (label 01aafb0d…)
- Label version
- current
- Last reviewed
- 2026
Reported adverse reactions
Reactions listed in current FDA labeling, with the highest frequency reported across summarized placebo-controlled trials.
| Adverse reaction (as reported in labeling) | Reported frequency* |
|---|---|
| Dizziness | 28% |
| Somnolence | 21.4% |
| Fatigue | 11% |
| Viral infection | 10.9% |
| Fever | 10.1% |
| Nausea and/or vomiting | 8.4% |
| Peripheral edema | 8.3% |
| Nystagmus | 8.3% |
| Hostility | 7.6% |
| Tremor | 6.8% |
| Asthenia | 5.7% |
| Diarrhea | 5.7% |
| Infection | 5.1% |
| Dry mouth | 4.8% |
| Amblyopiab | 4.2% |
| Emotional lability | 4.2% |
| Rhinitis | 4.1% |
| Constipation | 3.9% |
| Nausea | 3.9% |
| Bronchitis | 3.4% |
*Highest percentage reported for the active moiety across placebo-controlled trial tables in current FDA labeling. Values reflect trial reporting, not your individual risk.
Labeled uses (from FDA prescribing information)
Postherpetic Neuralgia Gabapentin tablets USP are indicated for the management of postherpetic neuralgia in adults. Epilepsy Gabapentin tablets USP are indicated as adjunctive therapy in the treatment of partial seizures with and without secondary generalization in patients over 12 years of age with epilepsy. Gabapentin tablets USP are also indicated as adjunctive therapy in the treatment of partial seizures in pediatric patients age 3 to 12 years.
Tests providers may use to monitor Gabapentin therapy
Conditions associated with Gabapentin in labeling
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Gabapentin used for?
FDA labeling lists the approved uses shown above under "Labeled uses." This summary is informational; only a qualified prescriber can determine whether a medication is appropriate for you.
What are the most commonly reported side effects of Gabapentin?
The table above shows adverse reactions and the highest frequencies reported in placebo-controlled trials summarized in current FDA labeling for Gabapentin. Individual risk varies.
Does Gabapentin require lab monitoring?
Labeling and standard practice associate Gabapentin with periodic laboratory monitoring; the tests above are commonly ordered by clinicians to monitor patients on therapy. Your provider decides what is appropriate.
Where does this information come from?
All clinical facts on this page were extracted from the current FDA-registered product labeling for this ingredient, published by manufacturers through NIH DailyMed. See the source link below.
Medical disclaimer: Educational content extracted from public FDA labeling. Not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.