Pregabalin
Generic Details
Generic Name
Pregabalin
Other Names
- Lyrica
Drug Class
- Anticonvulsant
- Analgesic
Chemical Formula
C8H17NO2
Molecular Weight
159.23 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Binds to voltage-gated calcium channels in the CNS
Indications
- Neuropathic pain
- Fibromyalgia
- Epilepsy
- Generalized anxiety disorder
Common Dosage Forms
- Capsules
- Oral solution
Typical Dosage
- 75-150 mg twice daily for neuropathic pain
- 150-300 mg daily for fibromyalgia
- 150-600 mg daily for epilepsy
Pediatric Dosage
- Safety and efficacy not established in children under 18 years
Geriatric Dosage
- Dose adjustment may be necessary in elderly patients due to decreased renal function
Side Effects
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Weight gain
- Edema
- Blurred vision
- Dry mouth
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to pregabalin
- History of angioedema
Pregnancy Category
- Category C - Risk cannot be ruled out
Lactation Safety
- Limited data available, caution advised
Drug Interactions
- Alcohol
- Benzodiazepines
- Opioids
Overdose Symptoms
- Drowsiness
- Mental confusion
- Loss of consciousness
Antidote for Overdose
- There is no specific antidote, management is supportive
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Rapid and extensive
- Distribution: Crosses the blood-brain barrier and placenta, present in breast milk
- Metabolism: Negligible hepatic metabolism
- Excretion: Primarily through the kidneys
Precautions
- Use caution in patients with history of substance abuse
- Monitor for signs of suicidal ideation
Warnings
- May cause dizziness and drowsiness, caution when operating machinery or driving