Pregabalin is used to treat pain associated with fibromyalgia. It has also been used to treat seizures and known as an anticonvulsant medication that binds to calcium channels in the tissues of the central nervous system and can relieve neuropathic pain.
Pregabalin is used to treat pain associated with fibromyalgia and also used for the management of neuropathic pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy, postherpetic neuralgia (nerve pain after shingles), and spinal cord injury.
Pregabalin comes as capsules to be taken by mouth.
The recommended dosage of pregabalin for fibromyalgia pain is 300 to 450 mg/day, given in two divided doses (e.g., 150 mg twice daily or 225 mg twice daily). A common way to start pregabalin is with 150 mg/day, given in two divided doses (e.g., 75 mg twice daily), and then increasing the dose after one week or longer if there is no response.
A lower dose may be required if you have reduced kidney function.
The exact way that pregabalin works as an anticonvulsant and pain relief medication is unknown. Pregabalin is known to bind to calcium channels in the tissues of the central nervous system. In doing so, it may alter neurotransmitters and nerve impulses involved in pain signalling.
You may notice improvement in your pain symptoms within one week, however for some people it may take longer, and dose increases may be needed.
Pregabalin interacts with a number of other medications. Please speak with your pharmacist or health care provider about whether any of the other medications you currently take interact with pregabalin.
Do not take pregabalin if you have an allergy to pregabalin.
Caution is advised when considering pregabalin treatment in elderly people or those with reduced kidney function.
Before taking pregabalin, tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant or are breastfeeding/chestfeeding or planning to breastfeed/chestfeed, as pregabalin is present in breast milk in those taking this medication.
If you experience swelling of the face, mouth or neck, seek medical care immediately, as this can lead to life-threatening respiratory problems.
Generally, pregabalin treatment should not be stopped abruptly. The dose should be tapered down gradually over at least one week, following your pharmacist’s or physician’s advice.
Pregabalin may cause dizziness, sleepiness, and blurred vision. This is even more likely if you drink alcohol or take medications for anxiety, narcotic pain medications, or other medications that make you sleepy. Do not drive, operate complex machinery, or engage in other hazardous activities until you know how pregabalin affects you.
Other side effects include: dry mouth, swelling of the hands and feet, weight gain, trouble concentrating, lack of energy, muscle weakness, constipation, and forgetfulness. Uncommonly, thoughts of suicide may occur in people taking a drug of this type. In this case, please contact your doctor immediately.
Generally, pregabalin treatment should not be stopped abruptly. The dose should be tapered down gradually over at least one week, following your pharmacist’s or physician’s advice.
To help minimize side effects, your health care provider may start with a low dose and increase it gradually. For those who may be prone to side effects, a slower rate of increase may help reduce side effects. Avoid drinking alcohol or taking other medications that cause drowsiness or affect cognition unless advised by your health care provider, as this may worsen drowsiness and your ability to pay attention. Avoid driving or operating machinery when starting this medication until you know how pregabalin affects you.
Drinking plenty of fluids, staying active, and eating a balanced diet may help reduce dry mouth, constipation, and weight gain. Using sugar-free candy or sugar-free gum can help minimize dry mouth it that is a problem for you. If you have kidney problems, the dose you need may be lower. It is important not to stop taking pregabalin suddenly – follow your health care provider’s instructions for gradually reducing the dose.
Routine blood tests or monitoring are normally not required while taking pregabalin. It is helpful to periodically check your kidney function in case it changes, and a dosage adjustment may be necessary if it is reduced.
Store this medication at room temperature (15 to 30 degrees Celsius) and keep it out of reach of children.
Contributors
This information was last updated in June 2026 with expert review and advice by:
Alan Low, BSc(Pharm), PharmD, ACPR, FCSHP, CCD, RPh
Clinical Professor, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia
Pharmacy Lead and Primary Care Pharmacist, BioPro Biologics Pharmacy
Care Director, MedInfuse Health
