Neurontin [Gabapentin]

Neurontin (a trade name of Gabapentin) is an anticonvulsant medication. It is used since 1993 to treat neuropathic pain, epilepsy and restless legs syndrome.

By its chemical structure, Gabapentin is a derivative of gamma-aminobutyric acid, the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the nervous system.

Despite its structural similarity to GABA, GBP does not bind to GABA receptors, is not converted metabolically into GABA, and is neither a substrate for, nor a direct inhibitor of GABA transport.

Studies suggest that Gabapentin increases the synthesis and non-vesicular release of GABA and prevents its metabolism. It is also shown to produce a modest increase in human brain GABA levels.

Gabapentin also often used off-label for anxiety disorder, depression, insomnia, and bipolar disorder. Besides that, the drug can alleviate the withdrawal symptoms of GABAergic drugs (such as Phenibut and benzodiazepines), alcohol and opiates.