Neurontin

The FDA approved Neurontin in 1994 for treatment of partial seizures usually associated with epilepsy. It was later approved for pain management associated with postherpetic neuralgia as a result of shingles.

Pfizer Markets Neurontin for Off-Label Use

Shortly after Neurontin appeared on the market, the manufacturer, Pfizer, began intensive marketing of the drug for off-label purposes not approved by the FDA, including bipolar disorder, attention deficit disorder, migraines and drug and alcohol withdrawal.

Pfizer also marketed the drug for use as a first-line monotherapy treatment for epilepsy, which the FDA had previously rejected. Pfizer continued to implement marketing techniques that illegally promoted Neurontin, influencing off-label uses based on unproven claims. These actions may have caused both patients and doctors to be unable to weigh both the benefits and risks of using the drug.

To learn more about legal claims relating to Neurontin, consult an attorney who practices in the area of drugs and medical devices.