Gabapentin is used to help control partial seizures (convulsions) in the treatment of epilepsy. This medicine cannot cure epilepsy and will only work to control seizures for as long as you continue to take it. While it can be highly effective and even life-changing for some, gabapentin can also cause side effects, carry risks and is sometimes misused. Gabapentin is a prescription medicine used to treat seizures, pain after shingles, restless legs syndrome, and off-label uses. Learn about side effects, dosage, uses, warnings, interactions, and brand differences. Learn what side effects to watch for, drugs to avoid while taking gabapentin, how to take gabapentin and other important questions and answers. Gabapentin is available in both branded and generic forms. Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant medication prescribed for a variety of conditions. Learn about its uses, side effects, and what you should know if you've been prescribed this medication. Gabapentinoids are commonly ingested in self-harm attempts and often misused for their sedative and euphoric properties. These medications can cause lethargy or agitation in overdose, increase risk of death combined with opioids, and manifest a withdrawal syndrome. Both gabapentin and alcohol affect GABA receptors in your brain—it’s like pressing the “slow down” button on your nervous system twice. This double-depressant effect can be particularly dangerous. When taken in excess, gabapentin can induce euphoria, a sense of calm, improved sociability, and help to reduce alcohol or cocaine cravings. [171][172][173] Also known on the streets as Gabbies , [174] gabapentin was reported in 2017 to be increasingly abused and misused for these euphoric effects. [175][176] About 1 percent of the responders. If you or someone you know has been prescribed gabapentin and oxycodone, you might wonder if it’s safe to take these medications together. Both drugs are commonly used for managing pain and other conditions, but mixing them requires careful attention. Overview: Gabapentin is used to treat certain people with seizures or nerve pain. Common side effects may include dizziness, sleepiness, or trouble with balance or coordination. Serious side.