Identification

• Neurontin is an anti-convulsant medication used to treat chronic pain, though it has not been proven to be helpful in the treatment of acute pain or depression.
  
  

Benefits

• Neurontin has been found to help reduce pain in patients suffering from arthritis, fibromyalgia, restless leg syndrome, migraines, diabetic neuropathy and other neuropathic pain conditions.
  
  

Significance

• In a study conducted by the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, 51 percent of patients taking Neurontin enjoyed a reduction in pain, while those taking a placebo reported a 31 percent reduction by comparison. Neurontin was well tolerated within the study, with only 19 out of 150 patients dropping out due to adverse effects.
  
  

Function

• Neurontin works by reducing sensitivity caused by an inflammatory response or injury to a nerve. Neurontin is also used to treat seizure disorders and tremors, as well as conditions that cause pain.
  
  

Warning

• Neurontin appears to be a safe and effective treatment for the chronic pain of arthritis, fibromyalgia and other conditions. Tell your doctor about any allergies you may have to medications, as well as another medicines you are taking for other conditions, before beginning to take Neurontin.