Neurontin Side Effects

While most people have no problems when taking Neurontin, side effects are possible. Common ones include dizziness, problems with coordination, shakiness, and drowsiness. Side effects are typically minor and easily treated. If you develop serious side effects of Neurontin, however, such as depression or significant problems with coordination that do not improve with time, contact your healthcare provider right away.

 

An Introduction to Neurontin Side Effects

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with Neurontin® (gabapentin); however, not everyone who takes the medication will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with Neurontin. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of Neurontin side effects with you.)
 

Common Neurontin Side Effects

Neurontin has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials. In these studies, the side effects that occur in a group of people taking the drug are documented and compared to side effects that occur in another group of people not taking the drug. This way, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.
 
In these studies, the most common side effects of Neurontin included:
 
  • Dizziness -- in up to 28 percent of people
  • Drowsiness -- up to 21.4 percent
  • Coordination problems -- up to 12.5 percent
  • Infections -- up to 10.9 percent
  • Fever -- up to 10.1 percent
  • Nausea or vomiting -- up to 8.4 percent
  • Swelling or fluid retention in the legs, feet, arms, or hands -- up to 8.3 percent
  • Unusual eye movements -- up to 8.3 percent.
     
Other common Neurontin side effects, occurring in 1 to 7 percent of people, included:
 
(Neurontin Side Effects Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;