What is pregabalin used for?

Pregabalin is a substance that acts on the nervous system, regulating the activities of nerve cells, being indicated for the treatment of epilepsy and neuropathic pain, caused by the malfunction of the nerves. In addition, it is also used to treat Generalized Anxiety Disorder and to control fibromyalgia in adults.

This substance can be purchased in generic or under the trade name of Lyrica, in conventional pharmacies, with a prescription, in the form of boxes with 14 or 28 capsules. The price of pregabalin can vary between 30 and 150 reais, depending on the laboratory, the dosage and the number of capsules in the product box.

What is it for

Pregabalin is indicated for the treatment of peripheral and central neuropathic pain, partial attacks of epilepsy, Generalized Anxiety Disorder and control of fibromyalgia in adults.

How to use

Pregabalin is available in doses of 75 mg and 150 mg. The use of this medication must be guided by a doctor and the dosage depends on the disease to be treated:

1. Neuropathic pain

The recommended starting dose is 75 mg twice a day. Depending on the individual response and the tolerability of the person undergoing treatment, the dose may be increased to 150 mg twice a day after an interval of 3 to 7 days and, if necessary, up to a maximum dose of 300 mg, 2 times a day, after another week.

Know the symptoms and causes of neuropathic pain.

2. Epilepsy

The recommended starting dose is 75 mg twice a day. Depending on the person's response and tolerability, the dose may be increased to 150 mg twice a day after 1 week. If necessary, after a week, a maximum dose of 300 mg can be administered twice a day.

Here's how to identify the symptoms of epilepsy.

3. Generalized Anxiety Disorder

The recommended effective starting dose is 75 mg twice a day. Depending on the person's response and tolerability, the dose can be increased to 300 mg daily after 1 week, and after another week it can be increased to 450 mg daily, up to a maximum dose of 600 mg daily, which can be reached after 1 more week.

Find out what Generalized Anxiety Disorder is.

4. Fibromyalgia

The dose should be started with 75 mg, twice a day and the dose can be increased to 150 mg, twice a day, in one week, depending on individual efficacy and tolerability. For people who have not experienced sufficient benefits with a dose of 300 mg daily, the dose can be increased to 225 mg twice a day.

Know the symptoms of fibromyalgia.

Possible side effects

The most common side effects that may occur with the use of this medication are nasopharyngitis, increased appetite, euphoric mood, confusion, irritability, depression, disorientation, insomnia, decreased sexual appetite, abnormal coordination, dizziness, drowsiness, tremors, difficulty in articulating words, loss of memory, changes in balance, attention disorders, sedation, lethargy, tingling or changes in limb sensitivity, changes in vision, dizziness, vomiting, constipation, excess intestinal gas, dry mouth, muscle pain, difficulties in locomotion, fatigue, weight gain and generalized swelling.

Does pregabalin make you fat?

One of the common side effects of pregabalin is weight gain, so it is likely that some people will gain weight during treatment with this medicine. However, not all people put on weight with pregabalin, studies show that only between 1% to 10% of people have seen weight gain.

Who should not use

Pregabalin should not be used by people with an allergy to any of the compounds in the formula. In addition, this medicine can only be used in pregnancy and breastfeeding under the guidance of a doctor.

Some diabetic patients who are undergoing pregabalin treatment and who gain weight may need to adjust their hypoglycemic medication.