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Gabapentin dosage FAQs: Answered by an expert

Gabapentin has several uses, each with its own dosage instructions
Karen Berger medical writer and reviewer headshot
By | Jan. 6, 2026
A prescription pad and bottle: Gabapentin dosage FAQs

Key takeaways

  • Gabapentin is a prescription anticonvulsant drug used for postherpetic neuralgia, seizures, and restless legs syndrome. It also has various off-label uses, such as fibromyalgia and tremor. 

  • Dosing for gabapentin is highly individualized to each patient based on the condition being treated and specific factors such as age and other medical conditions. Healthcare providers typically start gabapentin at a low dose, gradually increasing to a dose that is effective and well-tolerated. 

  • It is important to take gabapentin exactly as instructed and avoid stopping it abruptly.

In this article:

Gabapentin is a drug commonly prescribed for uses such as nerve pain and seizures, but there are many off-label uses as well. Because of its numerous uses, it may lead someone to wonder about the correct dosage. However, it’s important to know that gabapentin dosage is highly individualized. We’ll address the most common questions people ask about gabapentin dosage, answered by an expert. This article is for general information only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for individualized dosing.

What is gabapentin, and why does dosage matter?

Gabapentin is classified as an anticonvulsant drug, or antiepileptic drug. It is known by brand names Neurontin, Gralise, and Horizant. Gabapentin products and formulations are as follows:

  • Neurontin is available as capsules in the following doses: 100 mg, 300 mg, 400 mg, 600 mg, and 800 mg. It is also available as a 250 mg per 5  mL oral solution (liquid). 
  • Gralise is available as tablets in the following doses: 300 mg, 450 mg, 600 mg, 750 mg, and 900 mg. 
  • Horizant (gabapentin enacarbil) is available as extended-release tablets in 300 mg and 600 mg doses. 

The gabapentin dosage is individualized to each person based on specific factors such as the condition being treated (and other medical conditions such as kidney problems), age, symptoms, and response to treatment. 

Healthcare providers typically start gabapentin at a low dose and will instruct patients how to gradually increase the dose to one that is effective and well-tolerated. It is important to take gabapentin exactly as instructed by your healthcare provider, as they have determined the optimal dose for your condition. 

Gabapentin is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the following uses:

  • Postherpetic neuralgia (long-lasting nerve pain after shingles) in adults (Horizant, Neurontin, and Gralise)
  • Add-on therapy to treat certain types of seizures in adults and children (Neurontin)
  • Restless legs syndrome (Horizant)

Additionally, gabapentin has many off-label uses, meaning a healthcare provider may prescribe it for a use that is not FDA approved. Examples of off-label uses of gabapentin include:

Normal gabapentin dosage for adults

As mentioned above, dosing is started low and gradually increased, as well as highly individualized based on the specific person. The following are some examples of dosing for common uses of gabapentin, but keep in mind that these are general guidelines. Your healthcare provider will instruct you on the best dosing regimen for your condition. 

Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN)

A typical starting dose is 300 mg by mouth daily on day 1, then 300 mg twice daily on day 2, then 300 mg three times daily on day 3. After that, the healthcare provider may gradually increase the dose, if needed. The normal dosage of gabapentin for shingles nerve pain (PHN) is generally 300 mg to 600 mg three times daily. The maximum dose for PHN is 1,800 mg per day. 

Seizures

The starting dose is generally 300 mg by mouth three times daily. The maintenance dose ranges from 300 mg to 1200 mg three times daily. The maximum dose for seizures is 3,600 mg per day. 

Restless legs syndrome (Horizant only)

The usual dose is 600 mg by mouth once daily with the evening meal.

Fibromyalgia (off-label)

A typical starting dose is 300 mg by mouth daily on day 1, then 300 mg twice daily on day 2, then 300 mg three times daily on day 3. After that, the healthcare provider may gradually increase the dose, if needed. The typical maintenance dose is 400 mg to 800 mg three times daily. The maximum dose for fibromyalgia is 2,400 mg per day.

Nerve pain (other types of nerve pain besides PHN; off-label)

A typical starting dose is 300 mg by mouth daily on day 1, then 300 mg twice daily on day 2, then 300 mg three times daily on day 3. After that, the healthcare provider may gradually increase the dose, if needed. The normal dosage of gabapentin for nerve pain is 300 mg to 1,200 mg three times daily. The maximum dosage of gabapentin for nerve pain is 3,600 mg per day.

Tremor (off-label)

The starting dose is generally 300 mg by mouth three times daily. The maintenance dose is typically 600 mg three times daily. The maximum dose for tremor is 3,600 mg per day.

Gabapentin dosage for specific populations

Certain people will need dosage adjustments when taking gabapentin. For example, people with kidney problems are typically prescribed lower doses based on the severity of kidney impairment. 

In general, healthcare providers start patients on low doses of gabapentin, increasing gradually as needed and as tolerated. Older adults, who may have other medical problems (including kidney problems) or who may take multiple medications, often require extra caution. In this population, healthcare providers are extra cautious in starting gabapentin at low doses and increasing the dose gradually and carefully.  

Gabapentin for pets

Gabapentin is sometimes prescribed in pets, but pets should have their own prescription. You should never give your prescription gabapentin to your dog or cat. Only a veterinarian can prescribe gabapentin for pets. 

Gabapentin for dogs

Gabapentin for dogs may be prescribed by veterinarians for conditions such as pain, seizures, or anxiety. It is very important to note that gabapentin liquid may contain xylitol, which is toxic for dogs, so your veterinarian will determine the appropriate and safest form of gabapentin for your dog. The gabapentin dosage for dogs by weight or size may require very small doses that are not available in pharmacies, so a compounding pharmacy may need to make the medicine in the appropriate dose for your pet. Gabapentin is usually given two to four times daily in dogs. 

Gabapentin for cats

Veterinarians may prescribe gabapentin for cats for pain, seizures, or anxiety. The gabapentin dosage for cats is based on the cat’s weight and the condition being treated. For seizures or pain relief, gabapentin in cats is typically given every eight to 12 hours. For anxiety, cats may require a single dose of gabapentin one or two hours before a stressful event such as a veterinarian visit.  

Risks, side effects, and signs your gabapentin dose is too high

Your healthcare provider will weigh the risks versus the benefits of gabapentin use. Before taking gabapentin, be sure to tell your provider your full medical history, including if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as well as all the medications you take, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, vitamins, and supplements. 

Gabapentin side effects

The most common side effects of gabapentin include:

  • Problems with speaking, coordination, and balance
  • Jerky movements; tremor
  • Drowsiness and dizziness
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Double vision
  • Unusual eye movements
  • Viral infections
  • Swelling of the legs and feet

Because gabapentin can cause drowsiness and dizziness, and affect your thinking and motor skills, you should avoid driving or doing other dangerous activities until you know how the medicine affects you. 

Gabapentin interactions

You should avoid drinking alcohol while taking gabapentin, and be sure to check with your healthcare provider about any potential drug interactions that could worsen the side effects of gabapentin. Alcohol and CNS depressant medicines that can make you sleepy or dizzy (such as opioid pain medicines, benzodiazepine anxiety medicines, or sleep medicines) can increase your risk of falls and other injuries, and cause serious breathing problems. 

Signs of an allergic reaction 

Allergic reactions are rare, but if you have hives, trouble breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, you should get emergency medical attention. 

Suicidal thoughts

Gabapentin may cause suicidal thoughts and behaviors in very rare cases. It is important to be alert to any changes in mood and behavior or any suicidal thoughts or attempts. For emergency situations, you should call 911. For urgent situations, you can call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. For changes in mood or behavior that are not urgent, call your healthcare professional as soon as possible. 

Signs your gabapentin dose is too high

Since gabapentin dosage can vary greatly, it is important to be aware of signs that your dose is too high, such as feeling excessively drowsy or uncoordinated. If you think you or someone else took too much gabapentin, you can call Poison Control at 800-222-1222. 

While taking gabapentin, it is important to follow your healthcare provider’s dosing instructions carefully. Do not take more gabapentin than prescribed. Be sure to keep all follow-up appointments so your healthcare provider can monitor you closely. 

Gabapentin misuse

Gabapentin is not a controlled substance at the federal level, but some states classify it as a controlled substance due to concerns about misuse and dependence. 

Stopping gabapentin

Gabapentin should never be stopped suddenly, unless instructed by your healthcare provider. Stopping gabapentin abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms or increase the frequency of seizures. If your healthcare provider wants you to stop taking gabapentin, they will give you a tapering schedule so you can go off the drug gradually and safely. 

Bottom line

Gabapentin dosage is very specific to each person. Typically, healthcare providers will start gabapentin at a low dose and increase the dose gradually, if needed. Not everyone will need a high dose, and maximum doses vary by condition. For medical advice and more information, check with your healthcare provider, as this article is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice or contain every possible warning. 

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Gabapentin dosage FAQs

What is the lowest effective dose of gabapentin for nerve pain?

The lowest dosage of gabapentin for nerve pain is typically 300 mg by mouth three times daily, but it usually takes about three days to get to this dose. 

Is 300 mg of gabapentin enough for some patients?

Yes, 300 mg of gabapentin may be enough for some patients, but doses vary widely based on many individual factors. 

What is the maximum dose of gabapentin in 24 hours?

The maximum daily dose varies based on the condition being treated. Your healthcare provider will tell you how much gabapentin to take based on your condition and other considerations. 

Can you take gabapentin with Tylenol (acetaminophen)?

Gabapentin and Tylenol do not have an interaction, but it’s best to check with your healthcare provider to make sure the combination is safe for your specific situation. 

Can you take gabapentin on an empty stomach?

You can take gabapentin with or without food; however, the extended-release tablets (Horizant) should be taken with food.

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