Which medication can be used to treat both epilepsy and neuropathic pain?

Gabapentin is a medication that is widely recognized for its dual efficacy in treating both epilepsy and neuropathic pain. As an anticonvulsant, it works by inhibiting excitatory neurotransmitter release and modulating calcium channels, which helps manage seizures in epilepsy.

In the case of neuropathic pain, gabapentin alters the way the brain and nervous system respond to pain signals, making it beneficial for conditions such as diabetic neuropathy and postherpetic neuralgia. This ability to address both neurological disorders is what sets gabapentin apart from other anticonvulsants that primarily focus on seizure control without significant effects on pain perception.

Other medications listed are primarily focused on either seizure control or have more limited efficacy in neuropathic pain management. For instance, carbamazepine is effective for partial seizures and some types of pain but may not be the first choice for neuropathic pain due to its side effect profile. Phenytoin is primarily used for seizure management rather than pain relief, and lamotrigine, while effective for epilepsy and certain mood disorders, does not have a strong indication for the treatment of neuropathic pain. Therefore, gabapentin stands out as the best option for treating both conditions