I Have Been Prescribed Gabapentin Because I Have Shingles. My

I have been prescribed gabapentin because I have shingles. My shingles are not extremely bad, I've had them much worse but I thought I should have something for the pain in case it increases. When I read the info on this medication, it appears that I should take it gradually, increasing the medication until I am taking 3 pills, 3 times a day. The doctor sent me 300 pills! I don't take a lot of medications and I don't want to take that much, especially when I just wanted something in case I needed it. What do you recommend?