It goes by the trade name Neurontin, but more formally is known as gabapentin in scientific and medical circles. Gabapentin belongs to a class of drugs known as sedatives, similar in effects to medications such as Valium, Xanax or Ativan. While it may have an opioid-sparing effect, according to a recent JAMA Research letter, people can abuse it and therefore carries a risk for addiction. “Gabapentin was originally introduced for the treatment of seizures,” said Fred Lado, M.D., Ph.D, Director, Epilepsy, Central and Eastern Regions, Northwell Health. The specific target of gabapentin is a calcium channel that is present throughout the brain.

Source: Forbes January 27, 2018 19:18 UTC