What is pregabalin and what is it for?

What is pregabalin?

Pregabalin is an active substance, which is used in various commercial or generic medicines, with an analgesic, anticonvulsant andanxiolytic mechanism of action.

The presentation of drugs with this metabolite are mostly incapsules or tablets, administered orally. The doses of pregabalin depend on the doctor’s prescription, for the case you are trying to treat.

Note: A medical study mentions that: “Pregabalinbinds to an auxiliary subunit ofvoltage-gated calcium channels in thecentral nervous system.” (1)

What is pregabalin for?

Pregabalin helps increasegamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), but it also blocks calcium channels that are responsible for muscle contractions or the release ofneurotransmitters. Specifically, pregabalin may be prescribed for:

1. Peripheral neuropathic pain

This type of neuropathy is the result ofa specific injury or condition in the peripheral nervous system, including the lowering of the body’s defenses. It is recognized by a stabbing or chronic pain in theskin.

To highlight: Doses of pregabalin for this complex clinical condition are 150 mg daily, and if no improvement occurs, increase to 300 mg for 3 or 7 days.

2. Seizures

You should know: Appropriate doses of pregabalin normally start at 150mg per day, going up to 300mg and the maximum dose that has been prescribed has been 600mg within safe parameters.

3. Generalized anxiety disorder

This anxiety disorder is characterized by a very constant worrying feeling , which leads to rapid tiredness (fatigue), insomnia , emotional irritability and even interferes with muscle functions.

Note: Treatment with pregabalin for this type of anxiety is 150 mg to 600 mg as the maximum dose per day, it is even recommended to evaluate the results periodically.

Pregabalin Side Effects

Like other anti-seizure medications, pregabalin’s strong mechanism of action leads to side effects that are somewhat uncomfortable for those less used to it. Therefore, these are the most common pregabalin side effects:

• Dizziness.
• Drowsiness.
• dry mouth
• Constipation.
• Confusion.

Important:A study mentions the following information: “The use of pregabalin is accompanied by an increased incidence of adverse eventswhen compared to another placebo; In addition, this substance has the potential to generate physical dependence when used in combination with opioid medications” . (two)

Pregabalin Contraindications

Pregabalin has warnings regarding its administration, because it interacts negatively in patientswith certain disorders or conditions. These are the contraindications of pregabalin:

• Allergies to the active substance.
• Diabetic patients.
• Pediatric patients.
• Renal insufficiency.
• Lactation period.

You should know: A medical study establishes that: “The drug pregabalin and gabapentin can Produce dependency and motivate abusive behavior , even in patients without a history of drug addiction . ” (3)

Key Findings

• Pregabalin is an anti-seizure medication, which controls anxiety-causing neurotransmitters. 
• Pregabalin is used as a treatment for neuropathic pain, seizures,  and generalized anxiety. 
• Pregabalin may increase the feeling of sleepiness or dizziness, as side effects. 
• Pregabalin should not be prescribed for use in children as a treatment.