In summary, gabapentin (particularly the 1800 mg dose) effectively treated alcohol dependence and relapse-associated symptoms involving craving, mood and sleep, and had a favorable safety profile. A sustained post treatment effect on drinking outcomes was found in those who responded well to gabapentin on study. Larger studies in more diverse populations of patients with alcohol dependence are needed to replicate and extend these findings. Gabapentin has been used ubiquitously by primary care physicians for many other indications, resulting in familiarity with its pharmacology, pharmacokinetics and side effects. Thus, unlike other approved treatments for alcohol dependence which are prescribed by a small number of specialists, gabapentin may be more readily utilized by primary care physicians. Increased implementation of effective pharmacological treatment for alcohol dependence in primary care may be a major benefit of gabapentin as a treatment option for alcohol dependence.
