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Updated May 2022
Pregabalin belongs to a group of medicines that are thought to control pain by working on brain chemicals which send signals to nerves. These chemical are called gamma-aminobutyric acid or GABA.
Pregabalin may be used alone, or in combination with other medicines, to treat nerve (neuropathic) pain or fibromyalgia. It is also used as an anti-convulsant for epilepsy.
Follow all directions given to you by your doctor carefully. They may differ from the information contained here or in the attached leaflet.
Pregabalin is used to reduce neuropathic (nerve) pain and sensations such as hot, burning, throbbing, shooting, stabbing, sharp, cramping, aching, tingling, numbness, pins and needles pain and for pain that keeps you awake at night.
It is taken by mouth swallowed whole in capsule form.
Take this medicine with a full glass of water at the same time each day. It is often taken multiple times throughout the day and can be taken with or without food.
if you miss a dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
Pregabalin comes in different strength capsules. The initial dose may be 25 to 75mg a day and increased to the lowest dose possible to control your pain. Usually, doses range from 150mg -600mg per day given in two or three divided doses.
This medicine may be used alone or with other arthritis medicines including:
The absorption of Pregabalin is affected by certain indigestion/antacid mixtures.
Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medicines, including medicines that you buy at the chemist, supermarket or health food shop.
You might experience side effects with your treatment. Tell your doctor if you notice side effects that you think are caused by this medicine. Many side effects disappear when pregabalin treatment is reduced/stopped.
This list includes the more common side effects of pregabalin, they are usually mild and short-lived.
Contact your doctor if you suspect one of these adverse reaction:
Contact your doctor if you notice any of the following:
There have been reports of heart failure in some patients when taking pregabalin; these patients were mostly elderly with cardiovascular conditions. Before taking this medicine, you should tell your doctor if you have a history of heart disease.
Blood tests are not routinely required for this medication.
The combination of pregabalin and alcohol can cause significant drowsiness if you have just started on this medicine or the dose has recently been increased. You are advised not to drink alcohol when you first start this medicine and while the dose is being increased. Once you are on a stable dose and the drowsiness caused by the pregabalin stops, you may drink alcohol.
Pregabalin may cause dizziness, sleepiness and decreased concentration. You should not drive, operate complex machinery or engage in other potentially hazardous activities until you know whether this medicine affects your ability to perform these activities.
It is important to discuss with your doctor if you are planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding while on pregabalin.
Store pregabalin in a cool dry place, away from direct heat and light (e.g., not in the bathroom).
Keep all medicines out of reach of children.