Pregabalin
What It Is Used For
Pregabalin treats nerve pain (for example from diabetes, shingles or spinal cord injury), generalised anxiety disorder, and is used with other medicines for some types of epilepsy (partial seizures).
How to Take It
The usual starting dose is 75 mg twice a day (150 mg a day), increased step by step by your doctor. The maximum is 600 mg a day, split into 2 or 3 doses. Take it with or without food. Do not stop suddenly; your doctor will reduce the dose slowly over at least a week. People with kidney problems need lower doses.
Who Should Not Take It
Do not take it if you are allergic to pregabalin or any of the ingredients.
Side Effects
Common: dizziness, sleepiness, blurred vision, dry mouth, weight gain, swelling of the hands or feet, poor concentration and feeling drunk or unsteady. Get medical help straight away if your face, lips or tongue swell, you have trouble breathing, or you have thoughts of harming yourself.
Precautions
Do not drive or use machines until you know how it affects you. Avoid alcohol. Tell your doctor if you have ever misused medicines, alcohol or drugs, as pregabalin can be habit-forming. Taking it with opioid painkillers can slow breathing dangerously. Older people are more likely to feel dizzy and fall.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Do not take it in pregnancy unless your doctor advises it; use effective contraception while taking it. Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking pregabalin.
Interactions
Opioid painkillers (such as tramadol), sleeping pills, benzodiazepines, alcohol and other medicines that cause drowsiness add to its effects. Taken with pioglitazone it can increase swelling and weight gain.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, out of the reach of children.
Checked by the Oshud Alo pharmacy team. For information only; follow your doctor's advice.
All brands of Pregabalin