Pregabalin is an organic compound classified as beta-isobutyl derivatives of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), one of the most widespread neurotransmitters of the central nervous system. Pregabalin was synthesized for the first time in the 1990s by Ryszard Andruszkiewicz, who was an employee of the Richard Silverman research team. The drug is available with a prescription, in the form of hard capsules, it can be purchased in many countries, including Poland.

Pregabalin - action

Pregabalin is an anxiolytic and anticonvulsant drug.

Pregabalin probably works by interacting with P / Q calcium channels, which play an important role in the activity of strongly stimulated nerve cells. Inhibition of ion channels reduces the secretion of glutamic acid, noradrenaline, serotonin, dopamine and the neuropeptide P in the spinal cord.

Pregabalina - composition

Tablet- contains an active ingredient of 25 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg, 225 mg or 300 mg of pregabalin; the excipients are: lactose monohydrate, corn starch, talc, gelatin, titanium dioxide (E171), sodium laurilsulfate, colloidal anhydrous silica, black ink (containing: shellac, black iron oxide (E172), propylene glycol, potassium hydroxide) and water.

The capsules- 75 mg, 100 mg, 200 mg, 225 mg and 300 mg capsules contain red iron oxide (E172).

Pregabalin - application

Pregabalin has been used in the treatment of epilepsy, but also in the treatment of generalized anxiety and neuropathic pain. Pregabalin can be used in the treatment of GAD (Generalized Anxiety Disorder), in generalized anxiety disorders, as a first-line treatment with antidepressants.

Pregabalin - indications

It is recommended to use the drug in cases of peripheral and central neuropathic pain, manifested by a feeling of heat, burning, throbbing, numbness, tingling, shooting, pricking, and cramping or aching.

Pains arise in the course of various diseases, including :

  • diabetes,
  • herpes zoster,
  • fibromyalgia,
  • neuralgia or as a result of spinal cord injury.

In addition, an indication for useThe drug is epilepsy as part of polytherapy in refractory patients with focal seizures, as well as generalized anxiety disorder, manifested by excessive anxiety and anxiety.

Pregabalin - contraindications

Do not use the drug if you are allergic to pregabalin or to any of the modules listed in the formulation.

Pregabalin - dosage

The drug should be used as described in the patient information leaflet or according to specific guidelines and recommendations of a doctor or pharmacist. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure. The use of this medicine depends on the disease and other factors such as the patient's age, gender or state of he alth.

Usually, pregabalin treatment is started at low doses and increased over time. It is only an oral drug.

Pregabalin - precautions

Allergic reactions may occur while taking the drug. Symptoms of allergies include:

  • skin rash,
  • face swelling,
  • swollen lips,
  • swelling of the tongue and throat.

Dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, fainting, and even loss of consciousness may occur while taking the drug. The drug increases the risk of:

  • comas,
  • depressed,
  • nervousness,
  • pain,
  • nausea,
  • diarrhea,
  • excessive sweating,
  • flu-like condition,
  • epileptic seizures.

Pregabalin should be used with caution in patients with diabetes mellitus, the elderly or those with cardiovascular disease, as the substance may cause heart or kidney failure. You should not drink alcohol while taking pregabalin.

Do not stop taking the medication and you should not take more than the dose prescribed by your doctor, as excess medication may cause drowsiness, confusion, agitation or restlessness.

Pregabalin - side effects

The side effects that are very commonly reported by patients include headache, drowsiness and dizziness. In addition, the following may appear:

  • increased appetite,
  • euphoria,
  • confusion,
  • irritability,
  • decreased libido,
  • ataxia,
  • coordination disorder,
  • trembling,
  • pronunciation disorder,
  • memory impairment,
  • difficulty focusing your attention.

Pregabalin - interactions with other drugs and diseases

In order to avoid any undesirable symptoms, please inform your doctor or pharmacist about all of themdrugs currently or recently used, as well as drugs that the patient intends to use. You should also inform your doctor about your current he alth condition, about any diseases or additional conditions you are struggling with.

Pregabalin and some drugs can interfere with each other by increasing the side effects seen with these drugs (respiratory failure, coma).

Pregabalin - pregnancy and breastfeeding

Before taking the drug, inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. The use of a drug containing pregabalin in pregnant women and during breastfeeding is generally not recommended.

Pregabalin - drug storage

There are no special storage instructions. The drug should be stored in a suitable place that is invisible and inaccessible to children. The drug should not be used after the expiry date stated on the package. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month.

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