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Medication module

Can Neurontin (gabapentin (immediate-release capsules)) be crushed?

Also searched as Neurontin · Immediate-release capsule

YES. Generally crushable

Exact formulation checkedImmediate-release capsuleA different strength, suffix, coating, capsule, or manufacturer may have different instructions.
Why

Neurontin capsules are immediate-release and do not appear on the ISMP “Do Not Crush” list; FDA labeling contains no restriction on opening them. Caution: the extended-release gabapentin tablets Gralise and Horizant ARE on the ISMP list and must not be crushed, so the product matters.

What to ask the pharmacist instead

Ask the pharmacist to confirm you have the immediate-release capsules (not Gralise or Horizant) and whether the FDA-approved gabapentin oral solution would be easier.

SourceFDA labeling (IR capsules); ISMP lists only the ER tablets Gralise and Horizant
Source checked2026-06-10
Clinical reviewSLP review in progress

Confirm with your pharmacist before changing how any medication is taken. This page never provides dosing guidance.

Confirm the pill before changing it
  1. Match the generic or brand name and strength on the prescription label.
  2. Match the exact formulation, especially ER, XR, XL, SR, CR, DR, or EC.
  3. Use the manufacturer or NDC and imprint as supporting identifiers, then confirm with the pharmacist.

Do not use color or shape alone. FDA guidance notes that approved generic pills can look different while containing the same medicine.

Keep going
Check another medicationSearch the free medication answers by generic or brand name.ISMP + FDA→Common swallowing questionsPlain-language answers about foods, drinks, and IDDSI levels.Answers→Understand the prescribed IDDSI levelSee what every level means, what typically fits, and how to test it.Levels 0–7→