What is pregabalin?
pregabalin 75 mg was originally FDA approved in 2004 as an anti-epileptic drug, also called an anticonvulsant. It works by slowing down impulses in the brain that cause seizures. Pregabalin also affects chemicals in the brain that send pain signals across the nervous system and belongs to the drug class called gabapentinoids.
Pregabalin is used to treat pain caused by fibromyalgia, or nerve pain in people with diabetes (diabetic neuropathy), herpes zoster (post-herpetic neuralgia), or spinal cord injury.
Pregabalin is also used with other medications to treat partial-onset seizures in adults and children aged at least 1 month.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use pregabalin if you are allergic to it.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
- lung disease, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other breathing problems
- a mood disorder, depression, or suicidal thoughts;
- heart problems (especially congestive heart failure);
- a bleeding disorder, or low levels of platelets in your blood;
- kidney disease (or if you are on dialysis);
- diabetes (unless you are taking pregabalin to treat diabetic neuropathy);
- drug or alcohol addiction; or
- a severe allergic reaction (angioedema).
Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.
- Pregabalin is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old to treat nerve pain caused by fibromyalgia, diabetes, herpes zoster, or spinal cord injury.
- Pregabalin is not approved for seizures in anyone younger than 1 month old.
How should I take pregabalin?pregabalin 75 mg
Take pregabalin exactly as prescribed by your doctor and read all medication guides or instruction sheets about pregabalin. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose.
Take pregabalin at the same time each day, with or without food.
Swallow extended-release pregabalin tablets whole and do not crush, chew, or break them.
Measure pregabalin liquid medicine carefully. Use the dosing syringe provided or a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse.
Do not stop using pregabalin suddenly, even if you feel fine. Stopping suddenly may cause increased seizures or unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Follow your doctor’s instructions about tapering your dose for at least 1 week before stopping completely.
In case of emergency, wear or carry medical identification to let others know you take seizure medication.
Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.
