Neurontin (dispensed generically as gabapentin) is an anticonvulsant medication that controls seizures by decreasing the abnormal excitement in the brain that causes seizures. Studies have shown that Neurontin can also reduce the neuropathic pain associated with PHN [source: National Library of Medicine]. The FDA has approved Neurontin for the treatment of PHN. Here's how it works. Nerves take messages back and forth from the brain to different parts of the body. If you touch something, a message is sent to your brain. Your brain interprets the message and sends a response signal back.