Pregabalin Dosage Guide
Complete dosing information for safe and effective treatment
⚠️ Important Dosing Information
- Always follow your healthcare provider's specific dosing instructions
- Do not adjust doses without medical supervision
- Gradual dose titration is essential for optimal tolerability
- Dose adjustment required for kidney impairment
General Dosing Principles
Start Low, Go Slow
Begin with the lowest effective dose and increase gradually to minimize side effects
Divided Doses
Take 2-3 times daily, with or without food
Individual Response
Optimal dose varies between patients based on response and tolerability
Regular Timing
Take at consistent times each day for best results
Condition-Specific Dosing
Neuropathic Pain (Diabetic Neuropathy & Postherpetic Neuralgia)
| Timeline | Dose | Frequency | Total Daily Dose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Dose | 75mg | Twice daily | 150mg/day |
| After 3-7 days | 150mg | Twice daily | 300mg/day |
| Maximum Dose | 300mg | Twice daily | 600mg/day |
Partial Seizures (Epilepsy)
| Timeline | Dose | Frequency | Total Daily Dose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Dose | 75mg | Twice daily | 150mg/day |
| Week 2 | 150mg | Twice daily | 300mg/day |
| Week 3+ | 200-300mg | Twice daily | 400-600mg/day |
Fibromyalgia
| Timeline | Dose | Frequency | Total Daily Dose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Dose | 75mg | Twice daily | 150mg/day |
| Week 1 | 150mg | Twice daily | 300mg/day |
| Optimal Dose | 225mg | Twice daily | 450mg/day |
| Maximum Dose | 300mg | Twice daily | 600mg/day |
Special Populations
Elderly Patients (≥65 years)
- Start with lower doses due to decreased kidney function
- Monitor closely for dizziness and falls
- Consider 25-50mg twice daily as starting dose
- Slower dose titration may be needed
Kidney Impairment
- Dose adjustment required based on creatinine clearance
- Normal: CrCl ≥60 mL/min - no adjustment
- Mild: CrCl 30-59 mL/min - reduce dose by 50%
- Severe: CrCl <30 mL/min - reduce dose by 75%
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
- Pregnancy Category C
- Use only if benefits outweigh risks
- Registers available for pregnancy monitoring
- Present in breast milk - discuss with doctor
Pediatric Use
- Not established for children under 17 years
- Limited data available
- Specialist consultation recommended
- Weight-based dosing if used
Dose Adjustment Guidelines
If Side Effects Occur
- Reduce to previous tolerated dose
- Slow down titration schedule
- Consider twice daily instead of three times daily
- Consult healthcare provider
If Inadequate Response
- Ensure adequate trial duration (2-4 weeks)
- Increase dose gradually if tolerated
- Do not exceed maximum recommended dose
- Consider alternative treatments
Administration Instructions
With or Without Food
Pregabalin can be taken with or without food. Food does not significantly affect absorption.
Swallow Whole
Capsules should be swallowed whole. Do not crush, chew, or open capsules.
Missed Dose
Take as soon as remembered unless close to next dose. Do not double dose.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep in original container.
Discontinuation
⚠️ Do Not Stop Abruptly
Pregabalin should be tapered gradually to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
Recommended Tapering Schedule
- Week 1: Reduce dose by 25-50%
- Week 2: Further reduce by 25-50%
- Week 3+: Continue gradual reduction until discontinued
- Minimum taper period: 1 week for all indications