Nerve pain medicinePrescription only
Pregabalin
Capsule or tablet
Quick Summary
Pregabalin calms overactive nerve signals.
Nerve pain
Epilepsy
Fibromyalgia or anxiety
Medical Uses
Nerve pain: Diabetic neuropathy, shingles pain, sciatica.
Epilepsy: Add-on for some seizures.
Fibromyalgia or anxiety: As prescribed.
How it's taken
The dose is increased slowly. Don't stop suddenly.
Your doctor decides the right dose for you. Follow their instructions and the label.
Common Side Effects
Drowsiness
Common.
Dizziness
Common.
Swelling and weight gain
Sometimes.
Interactions
Opioids and alcohol
Dangerous drowsiness and breathing problems.
Critical Warnings
Misuse and dependence
Black Box Warning: Can be misused; take only as prescribed.
Don't stop suddenly
Your doctor will help you reduce it slowly.
Drowsiness
Don't drive or use machines if it makes you sleepy, and avoid alcohol.
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Pregabalin: drug information(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine
- Pregabalin: medicine to treat epilepsy and anxiety(opens in a new tab) · NHS