Pregabalin is used to treat neuropathic pain (long-lasting pain due to damaged nerves), and fibromyalgia (a condition characterised by pain all over the body accompanied by tiredness and sleep, memory or mood problems).
This medicine is also used together with other medicines to treat epilepsy (fits or seizures).
Pregabalin may be used to treat other conditions as decided by your doctor.
Take Pregabalin exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist whether you should take this medicine with or without food. Different preparations of this medicine may be taken differently. Try to take it at the same time each day.
This medicine is available as a conventional capsule, oral solution, or extended-release tablet.
If you are taking the capsule, swallow it whole with a glass of water.
If you are taking the extended-release type of tablet (usually labelled as "CR"), swallow it whole. Do not divide, chew, or crush the tablet.
If you are taking the oral solution, use the measuring device (e.g. oral syringe) provided to measure your dose.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on the type of your condition and response to the medication.
Pregabalin must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it suddenly as this may worsen your condition.
If you are taking the capsule or oral solution, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
If you are taking the extended-release tablet and you missed your dose after your evening meal, take the missed dose before your bedtime after eating a snack. If you miss the dose before bedtime, then take it after your morning meal of the following day. If you miss the dose of the following morning meal, then take the next dose at your usual schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Do not take Pregabalin if you ever had an allergic reaction (e.g. rashes, breathlessness, swollen eyes) to this medicine or any of its ingredients.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- diabetes
- lung problems or disease
- disorder that affects the brain and nerves
- heart disease
- history of alcohol or substance abuse
- have had a history of angioedema (swelling of the deep layers of the skin usually around the face, throat and lips)
- kidney disease
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant. Pregabalin may cause harm to your unborn child.
It is important that you do not get pregnant while being treated with this medicine. You may wish to discuss birth control methods with your doctor or pharmacist.
Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Pregabalin to the elderly. Elderly people may be more sensitive to the side effects.
Do not switch between different brands or preparations unless advised by your doctor.
Why is it important to keep my appointments with the doctor?
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
- Routine tests (e.g. kidney function, platelet count) may be done while you are being treated with this medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
- Regular monitoring of signs and symptoms of suicidal thoughts, depression, or changes in behaviour may also be needed.
Pregabalin may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert or need to see clearly.
Other side effects include any of the following: headache, nausea, vomiting, increased appetite, dry mouth, diarrhoea, constipation, unsteadiness when walking, reduced coordination, tremor, joint pain, muscle cramps, weakness, numbness or tingling sensation in the hands and feet, memory impairment, dizziness with sensation of spinning, decreased sexual desire, difficulty sleeping, and feeling drunk or abnormal.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- signs and symptoms of allergic reaction e.g. rashes, breathlessness, swelling of the face, eyes, or mouth
- having thoughts of self-harm
- unusual changes in mood or behaviour (being too depressed, agitated, or having compulsive and impulsive behaviour)
- signs and symptoms of lung problem e.g. trouble breathing, slow or shallow breathing
- sudden loss of vision
- pain or difficulty in passing urine, change in how much urine is passed, blood in the urine
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- strong painkillers e.g. oxycodone
- medicines that cause drowsiness or affect your concentration e.g. lorazepam
- certain medicines for high blood pressure e.g. captopril
- certain medicines for diabetes e.g. pioglitazone
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Pregabalin.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol. Alcohol intake may worsen the dizziness and drowsiness caused by Pregabalin.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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