How to Calculate Gabapentin Dosage

This calculator determines a safe starting dose of gabapentin (Neurontin) based on indication and age, using these guidelines:

Typical Daily Dose (mg):

Dose per Administration (mg):

Units per Day (Capsules/Tablets):

Where:

• Indication: Epilepsy (900–1800 mg/day), Restless Legs Syndrome (900–1800 mg/day), Postherpetic Neuralgia (900 mg/day), Peripheral Neuropathy (900 mg/day), Anxiety (900 mg/day).
• Age: Patient’s age in years (minimum 3 years; 12 years for non-epilepsy indications).
• Form Type: Capsule (100 mg, 300 mg, 400 mg) or Tablet (600 mg, 800 mg).

Dose starts at 300 mg on Day 1, increases to 600 mg on Day 2, and 900 mg on Day 3, given every 8 hours (3 doses/day) beyond Day 2. Maintenance may increase to 1800 mg/day for Epilepsy and Restless Legs. Maximum dose is 3600 mg/day.

Using the Gabapentin Dosage Calculator

This tool estimates a gabapentin dose based on indication and age. Select the indication (Epilepsy, Restless Legs Syndrome, Postherpetic Neuralgia, Peripheral Neuropathy, Anxiety), enter the patient’s age (default 18 years), and choose the drug type (Capsule 100 mg, 300 mg, 400 mg, or Tablet 600 mg, 800 mg). Results show the titration schedule, units per day, and maximum daily limit.

Example: Epilepsy, Age 18, Capsule 300 mg:

Titration Schedule (Every 8 hours after Day 1):
⁍ Day 1: 300 mg (1 dose) - 1.0 Capsules of 300 mg.
⁍ Day 2: 600 mg (2 doses) - 2.0 Capsules of 300 mg.
⁍ Day 3 and beyond: 3.0 Capsules of 300 mg.
⁍ Maintenance: 900–1800 mg per day .
You'll need 3.0–6.0 Capsules of 300 mg per day.
Do not exceed 3600 mg per day (1200 mg per dose).
            

Consult a healthcare provider before administering.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is gabapentin used for?

Gabapentin treats epilepsy (seizures), restless legs syndrome, postherpetic neuralgia, peripheral neuropathy, and anxiety (off-label).

2. How often can gabapentin be taken?

Once on Day 1 (300 mg), twice on Day 2 (600 mg), then three times daily (every 8 hours) from Day 3 onward (900–1800 mg/day).

3. Can I use gabapentin for children?

Not under 3 years for any indication, or under 12 years for restless legs, neuralgia, neuropathy, or anxiety. Epilepsy allows use from age 3.

4. What’s the difference between capsules and tablets?

Capsules (100 mg, 300 mg, 400 mg) and tablets (600 mg, 800 mg) are oral solids differing only in strength.

5. How long can someone take gabapentin?

Duration varies by condition (e.g., chronic for epilepsy, short-term for neuralgia). Monitor for side effects like dizziness or sedation.