Find patient medical information for Gabapentin (Gralise, Neurontin) on WebMD including its uses, side effects and safety, interactions, pictures, warnings, and user ratings Easy-to-read patient tips for gabapentin covering how it works, benefits, risks, and best practices. Gabapentin is generally considered safe when prescribed for its approved uses and taken as directed, but it carries real risks that depend heavily on who is taking it and what other medications are involved. Yes, Gabapentin is safe for cats when prescribed by a veterinarian. This medication is commonly used to treat cat pain, anxiety, and feline hyperesthesia syndrome with minimal side effects. If a man takes gabapentin, could it affect fertility or increase the chance of birth defects? Studies have not been done to see if gabapentin could affect a man’s fertility (ability to make healthy sperm) or increase the chance of birth defects. While gabapentin is used for many therapeutic applications and can be safe to use when taken as prescribed, there are also risks linked with its use. The drug’s side effects can be severe, and there is a risk of abuse and dependence on the drug. Gabapentin is generally safe when taken as prescribed, but it carries real risks that depend on your age, kidney function, other medications, and how long you’ve been taking it. Understanding both sides of this medication is essential before starting or continuing to take it. Gabapentin is approved to prevent and control partial seizures, relieve postherpetic neuralgia after shingles and moderate-to-severe restless legs syndrome. Learn what side effects to watch for, drugs to avoid while taking gabapentin, how to take gabapentin and other important questions and answers. Safety and efficacy have not been established. Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of gabapentin in the elderly.