My new dr. is starting me on gabapentine 100 mg. for severe, chronic headache (24 yrs+), but I also take Prilosec for stomach ulcer/GERD problems. I don't know how to do both of these and she didn't give any advice. Also, I have a full-time job and am worried about side effects and driving/working. Any help with this is appreciated.
How do I take both gabapentine and Prilosec?
Question posted by purrzhnmama on 4 March 2011
Last updated on 27 February 2012
4 Answers
Inactive
5 March 2011
The gabepentin is a smaller dose, & i would suspect it will be increased. Usually they start one out at 300mg, & go up to 1200mg like my husband. He prefers to take his all at bedtime (but he doesn't tell his doctor this). He says it really helps his neuropathy & Fibromyalgia pains, but if he takes it 600mg in the AM like he's suppose to it makes him too sleepy. I don't think you will see much in side effects from the dosage for worrying about driving right now. The prilosec is a pro-ton inhibitor, & the FDA put out a warning yesterday that is takes most of the magnesium out of the system (all of the proton inhibitors do) so at least take a supplement. Have they diagnosed your headache as Migraine or Cluster or what? Curious as I find the gabepentin unusual for headache unless they think it's nerve related. Gabepentin is actually a seizure medicine, but is used for chrontic pain & other conditions. Hope this helps.
Good luck with those headaches! I had them for 40 years until I latched on to Immetrix shots, & I no longer have migraines. Best wishes for a speedy recovery...
rstoner1
26 Feb 2012
I have recently been prescribed gabapentin (Neurontin) and omeprazole
(Prilosec). It stated to avoid taking an antacid within 2 hours before or after you take Neurontin. Antacids can make it harder for your body to absorb Neurontin.
Stone
Inactive
27 Feb 2012
You are correct! I take my omprazole (prilosec in the morning when I first get up. Would be wise to do this before coffee or a meal. Take the gabepentin at bedtime or at least 2 hours after the prilosec if you are to take the gabepentin twice a day... Mary
purrzhnmama
27 Feb 2012
I also take the prilosec at least 2 hours before the gabapentin. I haven't gotten past 400 mg. AM and 500 mg PM as the side effects are too difficult to deal with while still working. Just make sure to keep at least 2 hours between the 2 meds and you'll be OK.
LaurieShay
5 March 2011
Hey purrzhnmama,
Prilosec should be taken a half hour before a meal. Neurontin (gabapentin) is generally divided doses of 300mg three times a day, but since you are on a low dose then it is probably prescribed once a day which can be taken either in the morning or in the evening but take the same time of day every day. BOTTOM LINE: Follow the directions on the bottles.
Some of the side effects from gabapentin may be bothersome at first such as dizziness and clumsiness. If you find this to be the case, then taking it at night maybe the better choice, given a choice. Again, follow your doctor's instructions per the bottle or call your pharmacist to get further explanation.
Good luck with the headaches, and keep in touch,
Laurie
caringsonbj
5 March 2011
I just want to clarify one thing I am not a physician I have a friend who is a pharmacist he says that taking Gabapentin and Prilosec that there is not a problem with using these two medications together or at the same timeis ok if you find that things don't feel right to you either contact your pharmacist or your doctor. You are important and we want you to get the best answers possible, if you find you have further questions feel free to write us back
Inactive
5 March 2011
A pharmacist told me to take my Prilosec before whenever it is that I experience the most symptoms. Gabapentin can make you sleepy, so you might want to take it before you sleep, or you can divide it up throughout the day so there is no large dose to make you sleepy. Of course you should use the instructions on your prescription bottle or contact your doctor if you have questions, as my advice is not that of a health professional. Take care -
purrzhnmama
7 March 2011
Thanks everyone for your responses. The headache started more than 24 yrs. ago - and has never stopped, despite all the different meds and treatments. It's vascular/muscular (crushing/stabbing/burning/eyes affected). Was diagnosed - finally - with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, which headache is #2 symptom. Was on a butalbital drug for a number of years but had to be weaned off that and then was put on Midrin. It was what gave me back my life, but now that has been taken off market by FDA. I've been really upset about that. My dr. is leaving our clinic and referred me to a neurologist. She is starting me on the low dose of gabapentine and then I'm supposed to build up gradually. Am also taking supplements of magnesium, calcium, Vit. D, multivitamin and high blood pressure meds. I was really concerned about the Prilosec because I don't want the GERD to increase.
BTW, how long do the dizziness/clumsiness symptoms last after a dose? A couple hours, or longer?? I'm really worried about my job. Have a long drive to get here and then a very long and busy day. Plus live on a farm, so have animals depending on me too. Thanks again. Take care.
Related topics
prilosec, headache, stomach ulcer, gerd, side effect, ulcer, chronic
Further information
- Prilosec uses and safety info
- Prilosec prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Prilosec (detailed)
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