Pregabalin - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

Information about Pregabalin

Generic Name : Pregabalin
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Pregabalin are provided here.

Pronunciation : pre gab' a lin

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Pregabalin, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.

You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.

ICD Code : Y46.6 Therapeutic Classification : Anticonvulsants

Trade Names/Brand Names of Pregabalin

India :

International :

Lyrica

Why is Pregabalin Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is an anticonvulsant used as an additional treatment of partial seizures. It is also effective against nerve-related pain as it decreases the number of pain signals sent out by the damaged nerves in the body. It is used in the management of postherpetic neuralgia (nerve pain caused by the chicken pox virus), painful peripheral neuropathy due to diabetes, nerve-related pain due to spinal cord injury and fibromyalgia (a condition where the patient has muscle and connective tissue pain). It is also used in the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder.

When should Pregabalin not be taken? (Contraindications)

Pregabalin should not be used in patients allergic to the drug.

What is the dosage of Pregabalin?

Dosage usually varies from 150 to 600 mg/day given orally in divided doses.

How should Pregabalin be taken?

Pregabalin comes as a capsule to take by mouth. It is usually taken with or without food two or three times a day.

What are the side effects of Pregabalin?

Central Nervous System- Dizziness, sleepiness, fatigue, euphoric mood, confusion, suicidal thoughts, irritability, abnormal movements, and problems with speech, memory or attention.
Eye and ENT- Blurred vision, double vision, vertigo
Gastrointestinal- Dry mouth, constipation, increased appetite, flatulence, vomiting, abdominal distension, abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea.
Genitourinary- Urinary incontinence, sexual dysfunction
Cardiovascular – Heart failure, problems with heart rhythm
Musculoskeletal- Pain in muscles and joints.
Respiratory-Inflammation of nose and upper throat, difficulty with breathing
Blood - Reduced platelet count which may result in easy bruising
Miscellaneous- Allergic reaction called angioedema which results in face and throat swelling and difficulty with breathing, fluid retention, swelling of feet, weight gain, low blood sugar

What are the other precautions for Pregabalin?

Avoid alcohol consumption while taking this medication.
Do not discontinue the medicine suddenly without consulting the doctor as it may lead to withdrawal symptoms.

What are the Drug Interactions of Pregabalin?

Some of the drugs that should be avoided or used with caution with pregabalin include the following:
• ACE inhibitors like captopril, enalapril , lisinopril, fosinopril, perindopril, ramipril as it results in swelling of the face, neck and mouth leading to breathing difficulty.
• Benzodiazepines like clobazam and lorazepam, barbiturates like phentobarbital and butobarbital, other sedative medications and alcohol due to additive sedative effect.
• Certain antidiabetic drugs like rosiglitazone and pioglitazone as they enhance fluid retention.
• Orlistat used in the treatment of obesity as it inhibits absorption of pregabalin from the digestive tract.

What are the storage conditions for Pregabalin?

Store it in a closed container at room temperature. Protect from heat, moisture and light. Keep out of reach of children.