Anticonvulsant, GABA analog
Binds to alpha-2-delta subunit of voltage-gated calcium channels, decreasing excitatory neurotransmitter release
Partial seizures, neuropathic pain (including diabetic neuropathy and postherpetic neuralgia), fibromyalgia
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), alcohol use disorder (AUD) including withdrawal symptoms, chronic pain syndromes (including neuropathic pain related to multiple sclerosis [MS]), restless legs syndrome (RLS), bipolar disorder augmentation, social anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and certain off-label psychiatric symptom management such as agitation or anxiety in neurodegenerative diseases
Oral capsules, oral solution
75 mg p.o. twice daily, titrated as clinically indicated
150–600 mg/day divided doses
Renally excreted unchanged; half-life ~6 hours; dose adjustment needed in renal impairment
Dizziness, somnolence, peripheral edema, dry mouth, weight gain
Respiratory depression (especially with CNS depressants), hypersensitivity reactions (angioedema, rash)
Monitor for misuse or abuse; assess respiratory status in high-risk populations
None
Pregabalin may be beneficial in neuropathic pain syndromes, including those related to MS. Caution is advised in elderly patients and those with respiratory compromise. Use in patients with neurodegenerative disease–related behavioral symptoms or agitation is sometimes considered, though evidence remains limited. Dose adjustments are required for renal impairment.