Perhaps your doctor has prescribed you a medicine called Pregabalin to treat nerve pain or to control seizures (epilepsy). This is a very important medicine that is prescribed to many people in our country. So, in this article, we will talk about how to use this medicine exactly, what we need to be careful about, and what side effects it can cause.
What is Pregabalin?
Simply put, Pregabalin is a drug that is mainly used to relieve nerve pain . Imagine, some people have severe pain that comes with burning and numbness in their legs and arms, whether due to diabetes or other medical conditions. That's what it's used for.
In addition, this medicine is also given to people with epilepsy to prevent and control seizures. It works by calming the overactive nerves in our body. Sometimes doctors may prescribe it for other medical conditions as well. So if you are not sure why you have been given this medicine, ask your doctor about it.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting medication
Before you start taking Pregabalin, it is important to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions. Do not hide these conditions, as they are very important for your safety.
- Addictions to drugs or other medications: If you have had an addiction to drugs or other medications in the past.
- Heart disease: Heart failure or other heart function problems.
- Kidney disease: If you have any kidney disease.
- Lung disease: If you have any lung-related condition.
- Mental health issues: If you have had thoughts of suicide, have made plans to do so, or are suffering from severe depression.
- Allergies: If you have an allergic reaction to Pregabalin, any other medicine, food, coloring, or preservatives.
- Pregnancy: If you are pregnant or are expecting a baby in the near future.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother: If you are a mother who is breastfeeding your child.
How should I use this medicine?
It is very important to know exactly how to use this.
- This is a medicine that you take orally. Take it exactly as your doctor prescribes, at the time prescribed. Follow the instructions on the prescription exactly.
- If this medicine is given as a solution, use the special spoon or cup provided to measure it. Do not use household teaspoons or tablespoons, as these are not accurate measurements.
- If you experience stomach upset, take this medicine with food. Or, it doesn't matter whether you take it before or after a meal.
- The most important thing is, do not stop taking this medication suddenly without your doctor's advice. Doing so can cause serious side effects. If you do stop, do so by gradually reducing the dosage.
- This medicine is for you only. Never give your medicine to anyone else, as it may harm them.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never double up on a missed dose.
What if I take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, do not delay. Go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately . Alternatively, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
Other things that may interact with Pregabalin
When taking Pregabalin, it may interact with some other medications and substances you are taking. So tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking (including vitamins and herbal remedies).
| Substance / drug type | Description and examples |
|---|---|
| Alcohol | Drinking alcohol while taking Pregabalin can severely increase drowsiness and dizziness. It is best to stop completely. |
| Allergy, cough and cold medicines | Antihistamines such as Piriton. |
| Medication for mental calm or sleep | Anxiety medications such as Diazepam and Alprazolam. |
| Some medications for depression | Medications like Amitriptyline, Fluoxetine, Sertraline. |
| Some medications for diabetes | Medications such as Pioglitazone and Rosiglitazone. |
| Painkillers for severe pain | Narcotic painkillers such as Tramadol and Morphine. |
Important: This list is not complete. Therefore, it is your responsibility to inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
What side effects might I experience?
Like any medicine, Pregabalin can cause some side effects. Some are serious, while others are common.
| Type of side effect | Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that require immediate medical attention | |
| Severe allergic reactions (Allergic reactions / Angioedema) | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, hands or feet, difficulty swallowing or breathing. |
| Mental changes | Thoughts of suicide, increased depression, excessive anxiety, memory loss. |
| Blurred vision | Decreased or double vision. |
| Difficulty breathing | Shortness of breath, difficulty breathing. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Drowsiness and dizziness | Therefore, avoid driving and operating machinery. |
| Dry mouth | Drinking a little more water can provide relief. |
| Swelling of ankles, feet, hands | If this continues, tell your doctor. |
| Nausea or vomiting | This can be reduced by taking the medicine with food. |
| Weight gain | This can cause weight gain in some people. |
How should I store and dispose of the medicine?
- Keep away from children and pets.
- This is a drug that can be abused, so keep it in a safe place to protect it from theft.
- Store at room temperature (between 15-30 degrees Celsius).
- Dispose of expired medication immediately. When disposing of medication, it is safest to mix it with something like coffee grounds, soil, or cat litter, and place it in a well-sealed bag before putting it in the trash.
Take-Home Message
- Pregabalin is a very important medicine for nerve pain and epilepsy. Always use it as directed by your doctor.
- Do not stop taking the medication suddenly for any reason without consulting your doctor.
- Avoid driving and drinking alcohol while taking this medicine as it may cause drowsiness and dizziness.
- If you notice any changes in your behavior or mental state (depression, suicidal thoughts) or severe allergic symptoms, tell your doctor immediately.
- Keep your medicine in a safe place out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with others.
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