Patient/Family Teaching

• Instruct patient to take medication exactly as directed. Patients on tid dosing should not exceed 12 hr between doses. Take missed doses as soon as possible; if less than 2 hr until next dose, take dose immediately and take next dose 1–2 hr later, then resume regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses. Do not discontinue abruptly; may cause increase in frequency of seizures

• Advise patient not to take gabapentin within 2 hr of an antacid

• Gabapentin may cause dizziness and drowsiness. Caution patient to avoid driving or activities requiring alertness until response to medication is known. Seizure patients should not resume driving until physician gives clearance based on control of seizure disorder

• Advise female patient to notify health care professional if pregnancy is planned or suspected or if she intends to breastfeed or is breastfeeding an infant

• Instruct patient to notify health care professional of medication regimen before treatment or surgery

• Advise patient to carry identification describing disease process and medication regimen at all times

• Refer patients with bipolar disorder to Manic-Depressive and Depressive Association for support

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