Pregabalin

Fact Checked

Medically reviewed by Joseph Blais, Pharmacist

Last updated on 18/03/2021.

GENERIC NAME: Pregabalin

CHINESE NAME: 普瑞巴林

BRAND NAME(S) IN HONG KONG: Lyrica 利痛抑, Pregatas, Brillior

DRUG CLASS: Anticonvulsant

USED FOR: Neuropathic pain, including diabetic peripheral neuropathy, neuropathic pain due to spinal cord injury and postherpetic neuralgia; fibromyalgia, generalised anxiety disorder, partial seizure

OTHER DRUGS IN THE SAME CLASS: Carbamazepine, Gabapentin, Lamotrigine, Phenobarbital, Topiramate, Valproic Acid

AVAILABLE DOSAGE FORMS: 25mg, 50mg, 75mg, 150mg (capsules)

What is Pregabalin for?

Pregabalin belongs to a class of medications called anticonvulsants. It works by reducing the pain signals sent out from the damaged nerves and can be used for neuropathic pain such as diabetic neuropathy and postherpetic neuralgia, as adjunctive therapy for focal seizures, and generalized anxiety disorder.

How to use it?

Pregabalin can be taken orally as tablets or capsules. The oral adult dosages for different uses are listed below:

For neuropathic pain

Start with 150 mg daily in 2-3 divided doses, then increase if necessary to 300 mg daily in 2-3 divided doses after 3-7 days and up to 600 mg daily in 2-3 divided doses after 7 days.

As adjunctive therapy for focal seizures

Start with 25 mg twice daily, then increase 50 mg daily at 7-day intervals and increase to 300 mg daily in 2-3 divided doses for 7 days, then increase if necessary up to 600 mg daily in 2-3 divided doses.

For generalised anxiety disorder

Initially 150 mg daily in 2-3 divided doses, then increase 150 mg daily if necessary at 7-day interval, up to 600 mg daily in 2-3 divided doses.

What are the side effects of Pregabalin?

The most common side effects of Pregabalin include swelling in your arms or legs, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, and weight gain.

Who should not take Pregabalin?

Pregabalin is generally not recommended during pregnancy or lactation.

Anyone who has an allergy to pregabalin or any other components of the drug should notify their doctor or pharmacist before initiating this medication.

Pharmacist Tips:

Side effects such as dizziness and drowsiness can occur. It is important that you do not drive until you know how Pregabalin effects you.

Common dosing schedule:
Pregabalin is best taken after a meal. It is also important to avoid alcohol while taking this medication.

This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.

Some common medications that Pregabalin may interact with:
– Opioid drugs, such as Tramadol, Oxycodone, Fentanyl, Methadone, Morphine, Pethidine, Codeine, and Buprenorphine

These drugs might cause excessive sedation, slower response time or slower respiratory rate which may be life threatening.

Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medications, dosage adjustments might be needed.

Where to buy Pregabalin in Hong Kong?

In Hong Kong, Pregabalin is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.

For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk/

Need more information?

For detailed information about the use of Pregabalin in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.

Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.