“Comprehensive Guide to Pregabalin 300 mg: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and Precautions”
Pregabalin is a medication primarily used to treat neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia, and certain types of seizures. It belongs to the class of drugs known as anticonvulsants or antiepileptics. Pregabalin works by binding to calcium channels in the central nervous system, reducing the release of neurotransmitters involved in pain signaling. It can alleviate pain and improve quality of life for individuals with chronic pain conditions.
Drug Class:
Anticonvulsant and Neuropathic Pain Agent
Strength & Dosage Form:
- Pregabalin 300 mg – Oral capsule or tablet
- Available in other strengths too: 25 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg, 150 mg, etc.
Mechanism of Action:
Pregabalin binds to the α2-δ subunit of voltage-gated calcium channels in the central nervous system. This reduces the release of several neurotransmitters, including glutamate, norepinephrine, and substance P, which are involved in pain signaling and seizure generation.
Approved Medical Uses:
| Condition | Use |
| Neuropathic Pain | From diabetic neuropathy, spinal cord injury |
| Postherpetic Neuralgia | Pain following shingles |
| Fibromyalgia | Chronic widespread muscle pain |
| Partial-Onset Seizures | As adjunct therapy |
| Generalized Anxiety Disorder | (Approved in Europe, off-label in some countries) |
Dosage Guidelines (Adults):
Always prescribed by a healthcare provider and titrated gradually.
| Stage | Dose |
| Starting dose | 75–150 mg/day |
| Maintenance dose | 150–300 mg/day |
| Maximum daily dose | 600 mg/day (usually in divided doses) |
Note: 300 mg is typically given as 150 mg twice daily or 100 mg three times daily.
Side Effects:
Common:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Weight gain
- Dry mouth
- Swelling in hands/feet (edema)
- Blurred vision
Less Common:
- Trouble concentrating
- Tremor
- Constipation
- Increased appetite
Serious (rare):
- Suicidal thoughts or behavior
- Angioedema (swelling of lips, tongue, throat)
- Allergic reactions
Warnings & Precautions:
| Factor | Precaution |
| Renal Impairment | Dose must be adjusted based on kidney function |
| Pregnancy | Category C (risk cannot be ruled out); should only be used if benefits outweigh risks |
| Abuse Potential | Pregabalin is a Schedule V controlled substance (US) – has low but present potential for abuse or dependence |
| Discontinuation | Should be tapered off slowly over at least 1 week to avoid withdrawal symptoms (e.g., insomnia, nausea, headache, sweating, seizures) |
Interactions:
- Alcohol: Increases dizziness and drowsiness
- Opioids, benzodiazepines: Potentiate CNS depression
- CNS depressants: Risk of increased sedation or respiratory depression
- No major drug-metabolizing enzyme interactions (not processed by liver enzymes like CYP450)
Storage:
- Store at room temperature (20–25°C / 68–77°F).
- Protect from light and moisture.
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