ALEN-75 CAPSULES
PEREGABALIN
What it does
Peregabalin is a medication used to treat nerve pain, anxiety, and seizures.
Commonly used for: nerve pain (neuropathic pain), generalized anxiety disorder, seizures (partial seizures)
Read more in plain English ↓Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.
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Sourcing - Kenya onlyRegistration & product details
Source: Food and Drugs Authority · fetched 2026-04-18 08:42:00 · updated 2026-09-25 04:00:04
About this medicine
Peregabalin is a medication used to treat nerve pain, anxiety, and seizures.
What it treats
- nerve pain (neuropathic pain)
- generalized anxiety disorder
- seizures (partial seizures)
How it works
Peregabalin works by calming overactive nerves in the brain and body, which helps to relieve pain and reduce anxiety.
Who it's for
This medication is for adults experiencing nerve pain, anxiety disorders, or certain types of seizures.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: peregabalin
Peregabalin is an anticonvulsant medication primarily used for the treatment of neuropathic pain and as an adjunct therapy for partial-onset seizures. It is structurally related to gabapentin and functions by modulating the release of excitatory neurotransmitters, thereby reducing neuronal excitability. Peregabalin is also utilized in the management of generalized anxiety disorder.
Indications
- Neuropathic pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy
- Postherpetic neuralgia
- Partial-onset seizures (as adjunctive therapy)
- Generalized anxiety disorder
Dosage
Children: Refer to BNF for Children for paediatric dosing recommendations.
Adults: Refer to relevant prescribing information for specific dosing guidelines.
Mechanism of action
Peregabalin binds to the alpha-2-delta subunit of voltage-gated calcium channels in the central nervous system. This binding inhibits calcium influx and subsequently decreases the release of excitatory neurotransmitters such as glutamate, substance P, and norepinephrine. This mechanism contributes to its analgesic and anticonvulsant properties.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamic effects of peregabalin include the alleviation of neuropathic pain and the reduction of seizure frequency in patients with epilepsy. It is also effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety. The onset of action for pain relief is generally within a few days of starting treatment, while seizure control may take longer to establish.
Pharmacokinetics
Peregabalin is rapidly absorbed after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations occurring approximately 1 hour post-dose. It is not extensively metabolized and is primarily excreted unchanged in the urine. The elimination half-life is approximately 6 hours, allowing for twice-daily dosing in clinical practice. Renal impairment significantly affects clearance, necessitating dose adjustments in patients with compromised renal function.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to pregabalin or any of its ingredients
- Severe renal impairment
Adverse effects
- Dizziness
- Somnolence
- Dry mouth
- Peripheral edema
- Weight gain
- Blurred vision
- Constipation
- Euphoria
- Difficulty concentrating
- Increased appetite
Interactions
- CNS depressants may enhance the effects of pregabalin
- Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors may increase the risk of angioedema
- Opioids may increase the risk of respiratory depression
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with a history of substance abuse
- Monitor renal function regularly
- May cause dizziness or drowsiness affecting the ability to drive or operate machinery
- Risk of seizures upon abrupt discontinuation
Pregnancy
Pregabalin is classified as pregnancy category C. It should only be used if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Breast-feeding
Pregabalin is excreted in human breast milk; caution is advised when administered to nursing mothers.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Capsules
- Oral solution
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.