Pregabalin

Molecule Description

Pregabalin belongs to a group of medicines used to treat neuropathic pain (seve

re pain due to damage to nerves).

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses of Pregabalin

As a first-line agent for the treatment of pain associated with diabetic neuropathy (severe pain in diabetes due to damage to nerves)
Nerve pain after herpes infection
Central neuropathic pain
A condition called fibromyalgia
Generalized anxiety disorder
Restless leg syndrome
Prevention of migraines

Contraindications of Pregabalin

When should one not use Pregabalin

Do not use Pregabalin if you have any allergic reactions to it.

Side effects of Pregabalin

Common side effects of this drug are:

Drowsiness, dizziness, headache (prevalent)
Confusion, trouble with memory, poor coordination
Dry mouth, constipation, vomiting, flatulence, diarrhea, nausea and weight gain
Problems with vision, dry eyes
Difficulties with erection
Potentially serious side effects-severe allergy and an increased suicide risk with vivid dreams
Rare side effects are blood pressure variations, pancreatitis, kidney problems
Important to note is sudden stopping of medication can result in withdrawal symptoms including sleeplessness, headache, agitation, nausea, anxiety, diarrhea, flu-like symptom, nervousness, major depre...
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This medicine should not be stopped abruptly, and it's dose should be gradually decreased and stopped

Precautions and Warnings of Pregabalin

Pregnancy

Can I take Pregabalin during pregnancy?

It is unsafe to use this medicine in pregnancy. Use effective contraception if you are a woman of childbearing age.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Pregabalin while breastfeeding?

This medicine passes into breast milk. It is unsafe to use this medicine if you are breastfeeding.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Pregabalin?

Taking this medicine may cause dizziness, sleepiness, and decreased concentration. Caution is advised if you need to drive.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Pregabalin?

Do not drink alcohol along with this medicine as you may develop excessive dizziness, sleepiness, and decreased concentration.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

You have a known history of heart disease
This medicine can cause dizziness; this can lead to accidental injury (fall) in elderly patients. Caution is advised in elderly
If you notice decreased urine, immediately inform your doctor
If you have epilepsy and taking this medicine, you should not stop this medicine abruptly
Fits may increase if stopped abruptly

Mode of Action of Pregabalin

How Does It Work?

Pregabalin reduces pain originating in nerves by modulating the activity of the nerve cells.

Interactions of Pregabalin

Interactions with other medicines

No significant interactions have been noted
Following medicines might cause excessive sleepiness when interacting with Pregabalin: Opioids like Oxycodone, Benzodiazepines, Lorazepam, etc.

Interactions with food items

No specific interaction is seen with food.

Dosage of Pregabalin

Overdose

Acute overdosage may result in excessive sleepiness, increased heart rate, sweating, and increased and abnormal muscle tone. Immediately seek emergency medical care.

Missed a Dose

If you missed any dose of medicine, take it as soon as you remember. If it's time for your next dose, then skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dos...

Content Details

WRITTEN BY

Dr. Abhishek B L

MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

REVIEWED BY

Dr. Ritu Budania

MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What should I discuss with my healthcare expert before taking this medicine?

A: Discuss all your medical problems and tell them about all the other medicines consumed by you. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or planning a pregnancy.

Q: When and how to consume the medicine?

A: Take Pregabalin orally, with or without food. Do not miss any doses.

References

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Last Updated on: 05 Oct 2020 | 10:47 PM (IST)

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