How long should you wait to administer an antacid if a resident is taking Neurontin?

The correct wait time to administer an antacid after giving Neurontin (gabapentin) is 2 hours. This recommendation is based on the potential interaction between antacids and gabapentin, which can affect the absorption of the medication. Neurontin is typically absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, and the presence of antacids can alter the pH level and modify the gastric emptying time. This could lead to reduced effectiveness of the medication if taken too closely together.

Waiting 2 hours allows enough time for the body to adequately absorb Neurontin before taking an antacid, ensuring the maximum therapeutic effect of the medication without interference. Administering them too close together may decrease the concentration of gabapentin in the bloodstream, leading to insufficient relief of the symptoms it's intended to treat.