Pregabalin
Molecule Description
Pregabalin belongs to a group of medicines used to treat neuropathic pain (seve
re pain due to damage to nerves).
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 depression, pain, convulsions, and dizziness...
- This medicine should not be stopped abruptly, and it's dose should be gradually decreased and stopped
Precautions and Warnings of Pregabalin
Pregnancy
Q:
Can I take Pregabalin during pregnancy?
A:
It is unsafe to use this medicine in pregnancy. Use effective contraception if you are a woman of childbearing age.
Breast Feeding
Q:
Can I take Pregabalin while breastfeeding?
A:
This medicine passes into breast milk. It is unsafe to use this medicine if you are breastfeeding.
Driving
Q:
Can I drive if I have consumed Pregabalin?
A:
Taking this medicine may cause dizziness, sleepiness, and decreased concentration. Caution is advised if you need to drive.
Alcohol
Q:
Can I consume alcohol with Pregabalin?
A:
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 dose of medicine to compensate for the missed one....
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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