Gabapentin (Neurontin) is used to treat which condition?

• A. Hypertension
• B. Neuropathic pain
• C. Allergy
• D. Bacterial infection

Answer: (B)

Gabapentin works by dampening nerve signaling in the central nervous system, which helps reduce neuropathic pain. It modulates calcium channels on neurons, decreasing the release of excitatory neurotransmitters that drive pain signals. Although it’s a GABA analogue, it doesn’t act on GABA receptors; its pain-relieving effect comes from this calcium channel modulation and reduced neuronal excitability. This makes it effective for conditions like diabetic neuropathy or postherpetic neuralgia, where nerve damage sensitizes pain pathways. It wouldn’t be used to treat hypertension, allergy, or bacterial infection, which are managed with blood pressure medications, antihistamines or steroids, and antibiotics, respectively. Common side effects include dizziness and drowsiness, so dosing is often started low and titrated up.