Pregabalin
Uses of Pregabalin
Pregabalin is commonly used to treat Anxiety Disorder, Epilepsy, Nerve Pain, and Seizures.
How Pregabalin Works
Pregabalin acts as an analog of the neurotransmitter GABA. It binds to alpha-2’-delta subunit and as a result, it modulates Calcium channels and reduces the release of several neurotransmitters that play roles in anxiety disorder, epilepsy, neuropathic pain, and seizures.
Side Effects of Pregabalin
Nasopharyngitis, Increased appetite, Dizziness, Headache, Euphoric mood, Confusion, Irritability, Disorientation, Insomnia, Libido decreased, Visual disturbances, Headache, Vertigo, Constipation, Diarrhea, Muscle pain, Tremor, Increased weight, Peripheral edema, Lethargy, Nausea and vomiting, Blurred vision, Diplopia, Joint pain, Erectile dysfunction
Warnings
Kidney Use With Care
Pregabalin should be used with caution in patients with severe kidney disease as it is primarily excreted via urine. Dose adjustment of Pregabalin may be needed. Please consult your doctor.
Alcohol Not Advisable
It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Pregabalin as it potentiate the effcts of alcohok such as headache, dizziness, nausea and visual disturbances.
Pregnancy Not Safe
Pregabalin may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown side effects on the fetus, however, there are limited human studies. The potential benefits from use in pregnant women may be acceptable even with the risk. Please consult your doctor.
Driving Not advisable
Do not drive unless you are feeling well. Pregabalin may cause side effects such as dizziness or sleepiness, all of which could affect the ability to concentrate and drive.
Liver Limited Data
Pregabalin is safe for patients with liver disease because there is no significant hepatic metabolism of Pregabalin.
Lactation Limited Data
Pregabalin is probably unsafe to use during lactation due to its excretion via breast milk. However, no reports explaining the use of Pregabalin in breastfeeding mothers are available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
