Yes, gabapentin comes in tablet form in several strengths

Gabapentin is sold as a tablet in the United States under the brand name Neurontin and as a generic medication from multiple manufacturers. Tablets come in 300 mg, 400 mg, 600 mg, and 800 mg strengths. Your doctor prescribes the strength and dose based on your condition and how your body responds to the medication.

Tablets are one of three main forms gabapentin is made in — the others are capsules and a liquid suspension. Many people find tablets easier to split or adjust than capsules, though you should only split a tablet if your doctor or pharmacist says it is safe for that particular strength.

Key Takeaways

  • Gabapentin tablets are available in 300 mg, 400 mg, 600 mg, and 800 mg strengths from multiple generic manufacturers and under the brand name Neurontin.
  • Tablets may be easier to split than capsules, but only split them if your pharmacist confirms the tablet is scored and safe to divide.
  • If you have trouble swallowing tablets, gabapentin also comes as capsules or a liquid suspension that your pharmacy can prepare.
  • Your insurance may cover generic gabapentin tablets at a lower cost than brand-name Neurontin, so ask your pharmacist about the price difference.

What tablet strengths your pharmacy stocks

The 300 mg and 600 mg tablets are the most commonly stocked strengths because they are the most frequently prescribed doses. The 400 mg and 800 mg tablets are available but less common — your pharmacy may need to order them if you need that strength.

When you pick up your prescription, check the bottle label to confirm the strength matches what your doctor prescribed. Gabapentin tablets from different manufacturers may look different from each other, so do not assume all white round tablets are the same strength.

How to tell if a tablet can be split

Some gabapentin tablets have a line scored down the middle, which means they are designed to be cut in half. Other tablets are not scored and should not be split, because breaking them can damage the medication or make the dose uneven.

Before you split any tablet, call your pharmacy and ask whether your specific strength is safe to divide. They can look at your prescription and the manufacturer's information to tell you. If your dose requires a half-tablet and your strength cannot be split, your doctor may need to prescribe a different strength instead.

Generic versus brand-name tablets

Generic gabapentin tablets contain the same active ingredient as Neurontin but cost significantly less. Most insurance plans cover generic versions first, and your pharmacy will automatically fill a generic unless your doctor writes "brand name only" on the prescription.

The generic and brand-name tablets work the same way in your body. The difference is in the inactive ingredients and the appearance of the tablet — the generic may be a different color or shape. If you notice a change in how the medication works after a refill, tell your doctor, but the change is usually just the appearance, not the medication itself.

When to use capsules or liquid instead

If you have trouble swallowing tablets, gabapentin capsules are an option — they contain the same medication in a smaller form that some people find easier to take. Capsules come in 100 mg, 300 mg, and 400 mg strengths.

If you cannot swallow capsules either, your pharmacy can prepare a liquid suspension from gabapentin powder. This takes a few days to prepare, so ask your pharmacy in advance if you need this form. The liquid is measured in milliliters and tastes bitter, so it is usually mixed with juice or applesauce to make it easier to take.

How to store gabapentin tablets

Keep your tablets in the original bottle with the label attached, at room temperature away from heat and moisture. Do not store them in a bathroom medicine cabinet, because humidity can damage the medication. A kitchen cabinet or bedroom drawer works well.

Keep the bottle tightly closed and out of reach of children and pets. If you have questions about storage, your pharmacist can write instructions on the label or tell you over the phone.

What to do if you cannot afford the tablets

If the cost of gabapentin tablets is a problem, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about lower-cost options. Generic gabapentin is usually the cheapest choice. Some manufacturers offer discount programs or coupons that you can use at the pharmacy, and your doctor may know of patient information programs run by the manufacturer.

Your pharmacist can also check whether a different strength or form might cost less. Sometimes buying a higher strength and splitting it (if safe to do) costs less than buying the exact dose you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cut a gabapentin tablet in half?

Only if the tablet is scored with a line down the middle and your pharmacist confirms it is safe to split. Call your pharmacy before you cut any tablet — they can tell you whether your specific strength can be divided. If it cannot be split and you need a half-dose, ask your doctor to prescribe a different strength.

What does a gabapentin tablet look like?

Gabapentin tablets vary by manufacturer and strength. They may be white, yellow, or other colors, and round or oval in shape. The imprint on the tablet (usually numbers or letters) identifies the strength and manufacturer. Check your prescription bottle label to confirm you have the right strength.

Is generic gabapentin tablet as good as Neurontin?

Yes, generic gabapentin tablets contain the same active ingredient and work the same way. The FDA requires generic medications to be as effective as brand-name versions. The main difference is cost — generic is usually much cheaper — and appearance.

What if I miss a dose of my gabapentin tablet?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double up on doses. If you miss doses often, ask your doctor or pharmacist about a pill organizer or phone reminder to help you remember.

Can I take gabapentin tablets with food?

Yes, you can take gabapentin tablets with or without food. Food does not affect how well the medication works. Taking it with food may help if it upsets your stomach, so do whatever is easiest for you to remember.