Psychotic and depressive symptoms after gabapentin treatment

Abstract

Gabapentin, one of the antiepileptics, shows its effects via voltage-gated calcium channels. Sedation and mood elevation are among its side effects. The positive effects of antiepileptics such as valproate and carbamazepine as mood stabilizers have raised the hope that other antiepileptics may as well be efficacious in the treatment of mood disorders. However, relevant research data have not proven success of newer antiepileptics. This article presents the negative side effects of gabapentin such as psychotic and depressive symptoms, which occur shortly after its use. The use of gabapentin in mood disorders is discussed through these side effects.