Pregabalin: Uses, How It Works, Medicines
Pregabalin is a prescription medicine used to treat nerve pain, some types of seizures and generalised anxiety in adults. It belongs to the gabapentinoids. It can cause drowsiness and dizziness, and some people become dependent on it. It should not be stopped suddenly.
Also known as: Pregabalin capsule, Pregabalin 75 mg, Pregabalin 150 mg, Lyrica, Alzain, Pregabalin 50 mg
Pharmacist review in progress. This page is based on the sources listed below and is being checked by our registered pharmacist.
How does Pregabalin work?
Pregabalin binds to a protein on nerve cells and reduces the release of chemical messengers that carry over-active signals. This calms nerve activity, which can reduce nerve pain, seizures and anxiety.
How to take Pregabalin
Follow the label or your doctor's advice. Pregabalin can be taken with or without food, the same way each day. Your doctor decides the dose and how long you need it.
Side effects of Pregabalin
Most side effects are mild and often ease after the first week, but a few need medical help.
Uncommon or mild
- Headache, usually fading after the first week
- Sleepiness, tiredness or dizziness
- Difficulty sleeping, nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea
- Mood changes
- Swelling of the hands, arms, legs or feet
- Blurred vision, weight gain or memory problems
Rare but serious: get medical help
- Thoughts of harming yourself or ending your life. Get help at once; this can start within a week of treatment
- Swelling of the lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing (a severe allergic reaction). Get emergency help
- Severe dizziness or fainting
- Seeing or hearing things that are not there
- Urinary problems, or an unusually fast or slow heartbeat
Who should be careful
Tell your doctor about your health history before taking pregabalin.
- Dependence: some people become addicted, and stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal. Tell your doctor if you have ever misused a medicine
- Adults only: it is not for children under 18
- Breathing problems, heart disease, or liver or kidney disease
- Pregnancy: some studies suggest a slight rise in birth defects; doctors use it only when the benefit clearly outweighs the risk. Do not stop on your own
- Driving or using machinery: avoid while dizzy, sleepy or with blurred vision
Medicines and things that interact with Pregabalin
Tell your doctor or pharmacist about every medicine and herbal remedy you take.
- Strong opioid painkillers such as morphine or codeine: tell your doctor before starting; effects can add up
- Other medicines that cause drowsiness or dizziness: side effects can get worse
- Alcohol: can add to sleepiness and dizziness
- Herbal remedies and supplements: not enough information to be sure they are safe together
If someone takes too much
Taking more than prescribed can cause sleepiness, confusion, agitation, seizures or fainting. Go to the nearest hospital or call 112, and take the medicine pack with you.
Regulatory status in India
Sold in India as a prescription medicine; follow the schedule printed on the pack. Used under a doctor's prescription, and this site gives information only.
Type of medicine
Pregabalin belongs to this type of medicine.
Medicines that contain Pregabalin
These medicines sold in India contain Pregabalin. They are listed A to Z, not ranked.
- Lyrica 75 · 75 mg capsule
What is Pregabalin used for?
Medicines that contain Pregabalin are used for these conditions.
Other medicines of the same type
These active ingredients are of the same type as Pregabalin.
Common questions
What is pregabalin used for?
It is a prescription medicine used for nerve pain, some types of seizures, and generalised anxiety in adults. A doctor decides whether it suits you and for how long.
Can pregabalin be habit-forming?
Some people become addicted. Stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal such as anxiety, trouble sleeping, nausea, pain and sweating. Tell your doctor if you have ever misused a medicine, and never share it.
Can I stop pregabalin if I feel better?
Not on your own. Stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal and, in epilepsy, seizures. Your doctor will reduce the dose gradually.
Does pregabalin cause weight gain or swelling?
It can cause swelling of the hands, arms, legs or feet and weight gain from increased hunger. Tell your doctor if this bothers you; do not stop on your own.
Is pregabalin safe in pregnancy?
Some studies suggest it may slightly raise the risk of birth defects, so it is used only when the benefit clearly outweighs the risk. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a baby. Do not stop it suddenly.
Can pregabalin be taken with alcohol or opioids?
They can add to sleepiness and dizziness. Tell your doctor before combining pregabalin with strong painkillers, and ask what is suitable regarding alcohol.