Dangerous Drugs:
Neurontin
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Neurontin promoted for uses by drug company for which the drug had no effect.

In April, 2005 the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) asked the makers of all epilepsy drugs to reexamine their study data following claims that the epilepsy drug Neurontin increases the risk of suicide. According to a report by the Alliance for Human Research Protection, Neurontin has caused over two thousand patients to attempt suicide with 160 resulting in death.

In 2004, the manufacture of Neurontin, Warner-Lambert, agreed to pay a settlement of $430 million to resolve criminal charges, which claimed the company had used illegal and fraudulent promotion of unapproved uses for the drug Neurontin. The company promoted off-label uses for which the drug had no effect, and for which there is no scientific basis to prescribe the drug. By FDA definition, it is illegal for companies to market drugs that it has not approved.

About Neurontin

Neurontin has been approved for two uses. First, it can be used with other medications in the treatment of partial seizures associated with epilepsy. Second, it can be used to relieve the pain that follows an attack of shingles.

Neurontin affects the chemicals and nerves in the body that cause seizures or the pain associated with shingles.

Neurontin Adverse Side Effects

Adverse side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop, you may wish to contact your doctor immediately.

Common adverse side effects in adults include:

  • Blurred, dimmed or double vision
  • Decreased coordination (clumsiness, dizziness)
  • Continuous, uncontrolled, back and forth or rolling eye movement
  • Unusual tiredness or weakness (fatigue, drowsiness)
  • Persistent sore throat or fever
  • Swelling of hands, ankles or feet
  • Mood changes (anger, depression, irritability)
  • Memory loss
  • Trembling or shaking
  • Severe Anxiety
  • Joint Pain
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Potential links to suicidal behavior

Adverse side effects common in children (3 to 12 years old):

  • Aggressive behavior or other behavioral problems
  • Anxiety
  • Concentration problems
  • Changes in school performance
  • Crying
  • False sense of well-being
  • Hyperactivity
  • Increase in body movements
  • Mental depression
  • Reacting too quickly, too emotionally, or overreacting
  • Rapidly changing moods
  • Restlessness
  • Suspiciousness or distrust
  • Amnesia
  • Thought disorders

Special Warnings About Neurontin

Neurontin causes some people to become drowsy and less alert. You should not drive or operate heavy machinery or participate in any hazardous activity that requires full attention until you are sure that Neurontin does not affect you in this way.

Neurontin has been shown to cause behavioral problems in children. These adverse side effects include aggression, hostility, hyperactivity and lack of concentration.

Be sure to tell your doctor about any medications that your are taking including over-the-counter drugs. Also, tell your doctor if you have any kidney problems or hemodialysis. Your doctor may need to change your dosage of Neurontin.

The effects of Neurontin on pregnant women have not been adequately studied. However, birth effects have occurred in babies whose mothers took an antiepileptic medication during pregnancy. This drug should only be taken during pregnancy if absolutely needed.

Note - Do not change medications without first consulting your doctor.
Free Case Evaluation
Free Case Evaluation
Free Case Evaluation

The law limits the amount of time after a patient incurs an injury to file suit. The amount of time varies based on the theory of liability and the state in which the patient files the suit.

If you or someone you love was prescribed Neurontin as a treatment for any of the above illnesses, you may be entitled to reimbursement for the costs of this medicine and other damages.

Please fill out the form below for a free evaluation of your case or call us at 1-800-275-0192.

The information you provide will only be used in accordance with our terms and conditions. By submitting this form, you certify that you agree to our terms and conditions and want us to contact you regarding your inquiry.

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