Can You Open Gabapentin Capsules?

Answer

Hello and thanks for reaching out to us! I certainly understand the problems you're facing! Neurontin (gabapentin) capsules are not only fairly large, but many individuals are prescribed to take multiple capsules at one time, several times a day.

Opening The Capsules

The good news is if you are having trouble swallowing (gabapentin) capsules, they can safely be opened, and the contents of the capsule can be sprinkled onto food or into a drink for immediate consumption.

Several studies have shown that opening the capsules and using the powder will not negatively affect the drug. In fact, liquid suspensions created using the powder contained in gabapentin capsules have shown good stability over a period of at least one month. Nevertheless, it is important to immediately consume the food or drink you sprinkle the gabapentin powder onto, just to be safe.

When opening capsules, I generally recommend sprinkling the powder on semi-solid food, such as applesauce or chocolate syrup, instead of a drink, just to ensure that you are getting the full dose.

It does appear though that gabapentin is highly soluble in water and fruit juice (one study used orange juice to dissolve gabapentin powder before being administered to children), so putting the powder in a drink and taking right away should be fine too. Just make sure you drink all of the liquid to ensure you are taking the full dose.

Final Words

Thanks so much for reaching out to us! Please feel free to contact us again if anything else comes up.