Gabapentin (Neurontin)
What to know about Gabapentin — also sold as Neurontin, Nupentin 300, Gabapentin Sandoz, Gabacor, GAPENTIN and 8 more: uses, side effects, interactions, and safety considerations for people taking it or caring for someone who is.
Gabapentin (brand names: Neurontin, Nupentin 300, Gabapentin Sandoz, Gabacor, GAPENTIN and 8 more) is classified as Moderate risk (3 risk points) by AllMeds. It is a S4 medication under the TGA in Australia. Gabapentinoid with CNS depression risk and potential for abuse when combined with opioids.
Key Takeaways
- TGA Schedule: S4 in Australia
- Risk level: Moderate (3 points)
- CNS depressant: May cause sedation, impair driving, and affect work capacity
- Respiratory depression risk: Requires monitoring, especially with other CNS depressants
- Recommended maximum duration: 90 days
- PBS listed: Subsidised under the Australian Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme
Scheduling and Classification
| Jurisdiction | Classification | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Australia (TGA) | S4 | PBS listed |
Risk Profile
Gabapentinoid with CNS depression risk and potential for abuse when combined with opioids.
How Gabapentin is regulated
Gabapentin is overseen by medicines regulators in each country. The rules below explain how it's scheduled, what oversight applies, and what to discuss with your doctor or pharmacist before starting, changing, or stopping this medication.
Work capacity impact: As a CNS depressant, Gabapentin may impair driving, operating machinery, and cognitive function. Work capacity certificates should reflect any medication-related restrictions.
Australia TGA / PBS / State Schemes
Classified as S4 under the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).
Listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for subsidised prescribing.
United Kingdom NICE / MHRA / FPM
NICE CG173 (Neuropathic Pain) includes pregabalin and gabapentin as treatment options for neuropathic pain. The MHRA has issued safety warnings about gabapentinoid misuse and respiratory depression risk when combined with opioids.
UK drug driving laws (Section 5A Road Traffic Act 2006) set specific limits for prescription drugs that cause impairment. Employers and occupational health advisors should assess fitness to work.
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Important: This page is general health information, not personal medical advice. If you have questions about your medication — including starting it, stopping it, changing the dose, or combining it with something else — speak with your doctor or pharmacist. For an emergency or suspected overdose, call your local emergency number or poison information service immediately. Information is drawn from regulator and clinical guideline sources (TGA, FDA, MHRA, NICE, PBS, CDC); see our methodology for details.