Final answer:
Gabapentin acts by binding to calcium channels, reducing excitatory neurotransmitter release. It's used for neuropathic pain and seizures, with side effects including dizziness and fatigue. Gabapentin enacarbil's pharmacokinetics have been extensively studied, indicating a well-tolerated profile with some dietary influences.
Step-by-step explanation:
The mechanism of action of Gabapentin is not entirely understood. However, it is believed to work by binding to a subunit of voltage-gated calcium channels in the central nervous system, which helps to reduce the release of excitatory neurotransmitters and thus has an anticonvulsant effect. This property of Gabapentin makes it clinically useful for treating conditions such as neuropathic pain, partial seizures, and postherpetic neuralgia. Research on Gabapentin enacarbil, a prodrug of Gabapentin, has shown that it undergoes rapid absorption and is converted to Gabapentin systematically. Studies have compared the pharmacokinetics and tolerability of immediate-release capsules and extended-release tablets of Gabapentin enacarbil through administration in single ascending doses and have evaluated the influence of food on its pharmacokinetic profile.
Side effects of Gabapentin can include dizziness, fatigue, weight gain, peripheral edema, visual disturbances, and difficulty with coordination. Although generally well-tolerated, therapists should monitor patients for these side effects. Some investigations into the pharmacokinetics of Gabapentin enacarbil involve the quantification of plasma levels and the in vitro inhibition of CYP isoenzymes to understand the metabolism and potential drug interactions.