Pregabalin is used for the treatment of epilepsy, generalized anxiety disorder, and neuropathic pain such as diabetic neuropathy that occurs after having shingles.
Epilepsy is a condition in which brain activity becomes abnormal. Wherein, it causes seizures or periods of unusual behavior, sensations, and sometimes loss of awareness. This condition affects both males and females at any age. Seizure symptoms can differ broadly. Some people with epilepsy simply stare blankly for a few seconds during a seizure, while others repeatedly twitch their arms or legs. Having a single seizure doesn’t mean you have epilepsy. At least two unprovoked seizures are generally required for an epilepsy diagnosis.
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) has symptoms that are similar to panic disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Living with this condition can be a long-term challenge. In some cases, or occurs along with other anxiety or mood disorders. Causes of GAD may include:
- Recent or prolonged exposure to stressful situations including personal or family illnesses
- A family history of anxiety
- Childhood abuse
- Excessive use of caffeine or tobacco that can make existing anxiety worse
Diabetic neuropathy can occur if you have diabetes. This most often damages nerves in your legs and feet. Symptoms of this condition can range from pain and numbness in your legs and feet to problems with your digestive system, blood vessels, heart, and urinary tract. For some, they may have mild symptoms. But for others, diabetic neuropathy can be quite painful and disabling.
Pregabalin is an anticonvulsant medicine that can be used in combination with other medications to treat the illness. This is available in the dosage strengths of 25 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg, 225 mg, and 300 mg. this product is supplied as capsules with an active ingredient of Pregabalin. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has already approved this prescription.
How does Pregabalin work?
Pregabalin binds to calcium channels found on nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. This lessens the release of several neurotransmitters from these nerve cells. Neurotransmitters are natural body chemicals that are stored in nerve cells. They are involved in transmitting messages between the nerve cells. This drug is thought to decrease the release of neurotransmitters called noradrenaline, glutamate, and substance P. Glutamate is a neurotransmitter that acts as a natural nerve-exciting agent. It is released when electrical signals build up in nerve cells and subsequently excites more nerve cells. It is thought to play a key role in causing epileptic seizures.
Decreasing the release of glutamate from the nerve cells in the brain is thought to help stabilize the electrical activity in the brain and prevent epileptic fits. Noradrenaline, glutamate, and substance P are also involved in transmitting pain signals in the brain and nervous system. As Pregabalin reduces the release of these neurotransmitters, it can also use in nerve pain occurring as a result of nerve damage, or a disturbance in the function of nerves.
How to use Pregabalin?
Pregabalin is to be taken by mouth as directed by your doctor. It is usually taken once a day after an evening meal. The recommended dosage is based on your medical condition and response to the treatment. The capsule should be swallowed as a whole with a full glass of water. Do not chew, break, or crush it. You must take each dose exactly as it is prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more or less than it is given. Your doctor may direct you to start at a lower dose and eventually increase it. Let your doctor know if your condition worsens or does not improve.
Do not suddenly stop taking Pregabalin without the consent of your doctor. Even if you feel well, continue to take the medication until the full prescription is done. To help you remember, take the drug at the same time and in the same way each day. Drink plenty of fluids while having this treatment. Doing so may lessen the risk of certain side effects. If you missed a dose, take it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed dose.
What are the side effects of Pregabalin?
Common side effects:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Loss of balance and coordination
- Edema
- Sleepiness
- Constipation
- Tremors
- Breast swelling
- Weight gain
- Blurred vision
- Problems with memory or concentration
Call your doctor right away if you have:
- Skin sores
- Vision problems
- Swelling in your hands or feet
- Rapid weight gain especially if you have heart problems or diabetes
- Easy bruising or unusual bleeding
- Unexplained muscle pain, weakness, or tenderness
Call for medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction such as:
- Hives, rash, or blisters
- Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat
Warnings and Precautions
- Before having Pregabalin, tell your doctor if you have any medical history especially of kidney disease, heart problems, or overuse/addiction to drugs or alcohol.
- This medication may make you dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive or do anything that needs your alertness until you know how this drug affects you.
- While having this medication, avoid alcoholic beverages. It may increase your risk of having some side effects.
- Do not share this medication with others even if they have the same symptoms as yours.
- Stay alert to changes in your mood or symptoms. Some people have thoughts about suicide while taking Pregabalin.
- This is not recommended for use in pregnant and breastfeeding women.
- Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice. Pregabalin is not approved for seizures in anyone younger than 4 years old.
- This medication can decrease sperm count and may affect fertility in men. Ask your doctor about the risk and benefits of this drug before using.
- This should not be used for the treatment of other conditions.
- Keep this at room temperature far from heat, moisture, and reach of children.
