Adapted from Faculty of Pain Medicine, Royal College of Anaesthetists, Patient Information Booklet 2017 – original can be accessed at: https://fpm.ac.uk/sites/fpm/files/documents/2019-08/Pregablin2017.pdf
Why have I been prescribed Pregabalin?
• Pregabalin is used to treat some types of persistent pain.
• It is especially good for nerve pain, such as burning, shooting or stabbing pain.
• Pregabalin belongs to a group of medicines called anticonvulsants
which are also used to treat epilepsy.
• You may notice that information from the manufacturer may not
mention your type of pain.
How does Pregabalin work?
• Pregabalin works by changing the way that nerves send messages
to your brain. If the messages are reduced, then the pain will be
reduced.
When should I take it?
• Normally, the starting dose is small and may be taken between one
and three times a day, but the dose will be gradually increased.
• Normally a minimum dose of pregabalin 75mg twice a day is
needed to get any benefit and the dose may need to be increased to
pregabalin 300mg twice a day.
• You will be told how much to start taking and how to increase the
dose.
• If you are taking antacid medication, it is best to wait for two hours
after taking it before taking pregabalin.
How is Pregabalin taken?
• The tablets should be swallowed whole, with a glass of water.
• Pregabalin may be taken on an empty or full stomach.
• Do not take more than prescribed.
How long will it take to work?
• Every patient is different. You may notice some initial benefit within a
few days, however it may take up to 1 month for a full effect.
You may need to increase the dose for pregabalin to be effective.
• Pregabalin does not work for everyone. If you do not feel any
improvement in your pain after 4 – 6 weeks, do not suddenly stop
taking the tablets but speak to your doctor to discuss reducing and
stopping the medication.
What are the possible side effects?
• Most side effects are mild and it is expected that they will reduce
after several days.
• Generally side effects are more troublesome just after starting
pregabalin or increasing the dose. It is important to persist in taking
pregabalin as these side effects usually wear off.
• Common side effects include; drowsiness, dizziness, fatigue and
muscle tremor. If you have these side effects and they are severe
contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
• Less common side effects include vision disturbances, indigestion,
weight gain, leg swelling, memory loss, euphoria, mood changes,
hallucinations or rash. If any of these side effects occur, contact your
doctor or pharmacist for advice.
• Some people develop severe anxiety if they miss a dose and some
take more than prescribed to help their symptoms. If you are worried
this is happening to you, discuss it with your doctor.
Can I take this medication long-term?
• Yes, if it helps. You may wish to reduce treatment every so often,
to check if your pain is still a problem. This should be done with
the advice of your GP or pain specialist, gradually reducing your
medication over a period of time.
Can I drink alcohol?
• Alcohol increases the sedative effects of pregabalin, it is best not to
drink alcohol when you start taking it. Once settled on a steady dose,
you may drink alcohol in moderation but it may make you more
drowsy than normal.
Can I drive?
• Pregabalin may cause drowsiness. If this happens, do not drive.
What should I tell the doctor?
• If you are allergic to any drugs
• If you are taking any other medicines or herbal medicines
• If you are pregnant or breast feeding, or if you are planning to become
pregnant in the future
• If you have a kidney problem
• If you have or have had a history of excessive alcohol use, recreational
drug use or addiction to prescribed or over-the-counter medication.
What if I forget or miss a dose?
• If you forget a dose then you can consider taking it when you
remember that night but this may result in sleepiness the following
day and affect your concentration, work or driving ability.
The alternative is to wait until the next dose is scheduled.
• However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose
and take your medication as normal.
• Do not take two doses together.
What if I want to stop taking Pregabalin?
• Do not stop taking pregabalin suddenly, you might experience
withdrawal symptoms. Speak to your healthcare professional (doctor,
nurse, pharmacist) who will be able to supervise a gradual reduction.