Neurontin

Posted by Christine on June 01, 1999 at 14:56:25
I am researching the use of Neurontin for the treatment of Bipolar Disorder.  The effectiveness of the medication, information on clinical trials, and the safety of the medication during pregnancy and lactaction. The information about usage of Neurontin throughout pregnancy is of particular interest and concern. Any comments and sources of additional information would be appreciated.
Thank You

Posted by HFHS.MD-D.E. on June 07, 1999 at 12:19:53

Dear Christine;
Neurontin (Gabapentin) is indicated as adjunctive therapy (added to other anticonvulsants) in the treatment of partial seizures in adults with epilepsy. It is also used for many other neurological diseases.  Recently, it has also been used as adjunct to other anticonvulsants (or to Lithium) in  Bipolar Disorder.  Although there have been encouraging case reports that support the use of Neurontin in Bipolar Disorder, there are no controlled data on this new agent at this time.  Some reports support  that Neurontin may offer more benefits as a mood-stabilizing drug during the manic phase, especially if mania is accompanied by insomnia or anxiety.  Further studies are needed to clarify the effects of Neurontin in patients with Bipolar Disorder.  Neurontin falls under Category C(in terms of  effects on a developing fetus)- it has been shown to be fetotoxic in rodents and has also led to fetal loss in rabbits. Because animal reproduction is not always predictive of human response, this drug should only be used in pregnancy  if the potential benefits justifies the risk to the fetus. It is not known whether Neurontin is secreted in human milk.
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