Horizant
PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: Horizant
Description
Horizant: Uses, Dosage, Demographic, Side Effects, Interactions and Generic Options Horizant is a medication that is used to treat restless leg syndrome and nerve pain caused by shingles. It works by affecting certain chemicals in the brain and nerves that are involved in the sensation of pain and discomfort. This article will provide comprehensive information about Horizant, including its uses, dosage, demographic, side effects, interactions, and generic options. Uses: Horizant is primarily used to treat restless leg syndrome and nerve pain caused by shingles. Restless leg syndrome is a condition that causes a strong urge to move the legs, especially during periods of inactivity or at night. Nerve pain caused by shingles is a painful skin rash that is caused by the herpes zoster virus. Horizant is also sometimes used to treat other conditions such as neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia, and hot flashes. Dosage: Horizant is available in different doses and forms, including tablets and extended-release tablets. The recommended starting dose for restless leg syndrome is 600mg taken once a day, usually in the evening. For nerve pain caused by shingles, the starting dose is 600mg taken twice a day. The dose may be increased gradually depending on the response of the patient to the medication. It is important to follow the dosage instructions given by a healthcare professional. Demographic: Horizant is approved for use in adults over the age of 18 years. It is not recommended for use in children or adolescents. Individuals with liver or kidney disease, as well as pregnant or breastfeeding women, should use Horizant with caution and only under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Side Effects: As with all medications, Horizant may cause side effects in some individuals. The most common side effects of Horizant include dizziness, sleepiness, headache, nausea, and vomiting. Other less common side effects include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips or tongue, and suicidal thoughts or behaviors. If these side effects occur, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Interactions: Horizant may interact with other medications, vitamins, and supplements. It is important to inform a healthcare professional about all the medications being taken before starting Horizant. To avoid dangerous interactions, it is advised not to mix Horizant with alcohol or any other central nervous system depressants. Generic Options: The generic name for Horizant is gabapentin enacarbil. Gabapentin enacarbil is available as a generic medication and is typically less expensive than the brand-name version. It is approved by the FDA and has been shown to be a safe and effective alternative to Horizant. Conclusion: Horizant is a medication that is used to treat restless leg syndrome and nerve pain caused by shingles. It is available in tablets and extended-release tablets, with different dosages recommended depending on the patient's response to the medication. Horizant is approved for use in adults over 18 years of age and should be used with caution by individuals with liver or kidney disease, pregnant or breastfeeding women. Horizant has been shown to be effective in treating the symptoms associated with restless leg syndrome and nerve pain caused by shingles, and generic options of the medication are also available. As with all medications, it is important to follow the instructions given by a healthcare professional and to report any side effects that occur.
Faq for Horizant
Horizant is mainly used to treat moderate-to-severe restless leg syndrome (RLS) and also as an adjunctive therapy for the management of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN).
Horizant contains the active ingredient gabapentin enacarbil, which is thought to work by binding to certain calcium channels in the brain and spinal cord. This helps to regulate the levels of certain neurotransmitters involved in pain signaling and movement control.
For the management of restless leg syndrome, the typical starting dosage is 600 mg once daily in the evening. For postherpetic neuralgia, the initial dose is usually 600 mg taken twice daily. Dosages may be adjusted based on individual response and tolerability.
The most commonly reported side effects of Horizant include dizziness, drowsiness, headache, blurred vision, and swelling in the extremities. It is important to note that everyone may not experience these side effects and some individuals may have different reactions.
Horizant should only be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before using Horizant during these periods.
The exact time frame can vary from person to person. Some individuals may experience relief from symptoms within a few days, while for others, it may take several weeks of treatment for the full therapeutic effects to be observed.
Drinking alcohol while taking Horizant may increase the risk of certain side effects such as drowsiness and dizziness. It is advisable to limit or avoid alcohol consumption while on this medication.
Horizant is not approved for use in individuals under the age of 18. The safety and effectiveness of the medication have not been established in pediatric populations.
Horizant should not be abruptly discontinued, especially after long-term use. A gradual tapering of the dosage is recommended under the guidance of a healthcare professional to avoid withdrawal symptoms and possible health risks.
Horizant is a medication that contains the active ingredient gabapentin enacarbil. It is primarily used to treat restless leg syndrome (RLS) and postherpetic neuralgia (PHN).
Horizant may interact with certain medications, so it is important to inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, and vitamins. Your doctor will determine if Horizant is safe to take with your other medications.
Horizant is not considered highly addictive, as it does not belong to the class of drugs known as opioids. However, abrupt discontinuation of the medication can cause withdrawal symptoms. It is always advisable to follow your doctor's instructions and not stop taking Horizant without medical guidance.
Horizant should only be used during pregnancy if the benefits outweigh the potential risks. It is recommended to discuss with your doctor before taking Horizant while pregnant or breastfeeding, as there is limited data available regarding its safety in these situations.
If you miss a dose of Horizant, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Horizant is primarily approved for the treatment of RLS and PHN. While it may be prescribed off-label for other conditions, it is essential to consult with your doctor regarding the efficacy and safety of Horizant for your specific condition.