Pregalin 75 Mg Capsule (15 Cap)

PREGALIN 75 MG CAPSULE

PREGALIN 75 MG CAPSULE, manufactured by Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd., is a medication primarily used for its anticonvulsant and neuropathic pain-relieving properties.

Composition

The active ingredient in PREGALIN 75 MG CAPSULE is Pregabalin at a strength of 75 mg.

Uses

This medicine is prescribed for several medical conditions:

• Neuropathic Pain: It is used to treat nerve pain caused by conditions such as diabetic peripheral neuropathy, postherpetic neuralgia (shingles), and spinal cord injury.
• Epilepsy: It serves as an adjunctive therapy for adults with partial-onset seizures.
• Fibromyalgia: It helps manage widespread muscle pain and stiffness associated with fibromyalgia.
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): It may also be used to treat symptoms of anxiety disorder if other medicines are unsuitable.

Dosage and Administration

PREGALIN 75 MG CAPSULE is for oral use and can be taken with or without food. It should be swallowed whole with a glass of water, not crushed, chewed, or broken. The typical starting dosage for conditions like fibromyalgia or spinal cord injury-associated neuropathic pain is often 75 mg two times a day (150 mg/day). Dosages can be adjusted by a doctor based on efficacy and tolerability, up to a maximum of 600 mg/day for certain indications. Consistent daily timing is recommended for optimal results. Abrupt discontinuation should be avoided, as it can lead to withdrawal symptoms.

Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Dizziness, drowsiness (somnolence), and fatigue
• Dry mouth
• Oedema (swelling of hands and feet)
• Blurred vision or other vision changes
• Weight gain
• Difficulty with concentration or abnormal thinking
• Headaches and mood changes

Serious side effects, though rare, can include thoughts of self-harm, severe dizziness, hallucinations, allergic reactions (angioedema), or heart failure in elderly patients with cardiovascular conditions.

Precautions

• Allergies: Do not take if allergic to pregabalin or any of its components.
• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption, as it can worsen side effects like dizziness and drowsiness.
• Driving/Operating Machinery: Exercise caution as the medicine can cause dizziness, drowsiness, and decreased concentration.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Not recommended unless specifically advised by a doctor. There is a pregnancy exposure registry for monitoring outcomes.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have kidney or heart problems, diabetes, respiratory disorders, or a history of drug abuse.
• Children: Safety and effectiveness have not been established in children under 18 years of age.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry, and dark place below 30°C (86°F), protected from sunlight. Keep out of sight and reach of children.

What is PREGALIN 75 MG CAPSULE used for?

PREGALIN 75 MG CAPSULE, which contains pregabalin, is primarily used to treat nerve pain (neuropathic pain) caused by conditions such as diabetic neuropathy, postherpetic neuralgia (pain after shingles), and spinal cord injury. It is also prescribed for the management of fibromyalgia, a chronic condition characterized by widespread muscle pain and stiffness. Additionally, it serves as an adjunctive therapy for adults with partial-onset seizures (epilepsy) and can be used to manage generalized anxiety disorder.

How does PREGALIN 75 MG CAPSULE work?

Pregabalin, the active ingredient in PREGALIN 75 MG CAPSULE, works by calming damaged or overactive nerves in the body. It decreases the number of pain signals sent out by these damaged nerves and affects the way pain messages travel through the brain and spinal cord. For epilepsy, it helps control seizures by reducing abnormal electrical activity in the brain, and for anxiety, it can help by stopping the brain from releasing chemicals that cause anxious feelings. Its mechanism involves binding to the alpha2-delta site, an auxiliary subunit of voltage-gated calcium channels in the central nervous system.

What is the usual dosage for PREGALIN 75 MG CAPSULE?

The dosage of PREGALIN 75 MG CAPSULE is determined by your doctor based on your specific medical condition and response to treatment. It is typically taken two or three times a day, with or without food. A common starting dose is 75 mg twice a day (150 mg/day) or 50 mg three times a day (150 mg/day), which may be gradually increased by your doctor up to a maximum of 600 mg per day, divided into multiple doses, depending on efficacy and tolerability. It is crucial to take this medicine exactly as prescribed and not to exceed the recommended dose.

What are the possible side effects of PREGALIN 75 MG CAPSULE?

Common side effects may include dizziness, sleepiness (somnolence), dry mouth, swelling in your hands or feet (oedema), blurred vision, weight gain, headaches, and difficulty with concentration or attention. Most of these are usually mild and may subside as your body adjusts to the medicine. More serious, though less common, side effects can include thoughts of harming yourself, severe dizziness, passing out, hallucinations, problems with urination, or signs of an allergic reaction such as skin rash, itching, hives, or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, and difficulty breathing. If you experience any persistent or severe side effects, you should consult your doctor.

Is PREGALIN 75 MG CAPSULE safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

PREGALIN 75 MG CAPSULE is generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless specifically advised by your doctor, who will weigh the potential benefits against the risks. Animal studies have shown potential risks of fetal structural abnormalities. Women who are pregnant or of childbearing potential should use effective contraception while taking this medication. For breastfeeding, limited data indicate low amounts in breastmilk, but due to potential risks observed in animal studies (tumorigenicity), breastfeeding is generally not recommended. It's advisable to discuss your situation with your doctor.

Can PREGALIN 75 MG CAPSULE be taken with other medications?

PREGALIN 75 MG CAPSULE can interact with other medications, potentially increasing certain side effects. It is important to inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking. Concomitant use with strong painkillers (like opioids), tranquilizers, or other medicines that cause sleepiness or dizziness can worsen these side effects and may lead to severe breathing problems. Taking it with certain diabetes medications (e.g., rosiglitazone, pioglitazone) may increase the risk of weight gain, swelling, and heart failure. Blood pressure medications (e.g., ACE inhibitors) may increase the risk of swelling and hives. If you are taking antacid medication, it is best to wait two hours after taking it before taking Pregalin. Alcohol should be avoided as it can intensify side effects like dizziness and drowsiness.

What precautions should be taken while taking PREGALIN 75 MG CAPSULE?

Do not stop taking PREGALIN 75 MG CAPSULE suddenly without consulting your doctor, as abrupt discontinuation can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as headache, mood swings, irritability, anxiety, difficulty sleeping, pain, or even seizures. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you experience dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. Inform your doctor if you have kidney or heart problems, diabetes, or a history of drug or alcohol abuse, as these conditions may require dose adjustments or special monitoring. This medicine is not recommended for children under 18 years of age, except for specific seizure conditions where the dose is determined by a specialist. There is also a small risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior; report any unusual changes in mood or behavior to your doctor immediately.

What happens if a dose of PREGALIN 75 MG CAPSULE is missed?

If you miss a dose of PREGALIN 75 MG CAPSULE, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose (typically within 2 hours), skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you have epilepsy, it is especially important to take the medicine regularly, as missing doses could trigger a seizure.

How should PREGALIN 75 MG CAPSULE be stored?

PREGALIN 75 MG CAPSULE should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. It is important to keep the medicine out of sight and reach of children. Store it at a temperature below 30°C.