Gabapentin ER
GRALISE
What it isGastroretentive extended-release gabapentin tablets (GRALISE, 2011) — the tablet swells in gastric fluid and is held in the stomach, releasing gabapentin gradually into the intestine, which is what makes once-daily dosing possible; titrated to 1800 mg taken with the evening meal and swallowed whole.
Why this oneFood is not a convenience here — the evening meal is what keeps the swollen tablet in the stomach long enough to work, so a dose taken on an empty stomach is a different drug.
What limits itApproved only for postherpetic neuralgia; effectiveness in epilepsy has not been studied, and the label states it is not interchangeable with other gabapentin products. Avoid if CrCl is under 30 or on hemodialysis.
FDA-approved for
- postherpetic neuralgia (2011)
NO BOXED WARNINGS
Principal riskSedation and dizziness, additive with opioids; not interchangeable with other gabapentin products
Classes and tags
Clinical profile
Mechanism of action: Gabapentin ER ballicule
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Memory aids: mascots and interaction avatars
Must take with food
Tablet swells → stays in stomach → releases gabapentin to intestine gradually
