Pregabalin Side Effects
Complete safety information and adverse reaction guide
🚨 Seek Emergency Help If You Experience:
- Severe allergic reaction (rash, hives, difficulty breathing, swelling)
- Serious skin reactions (blistering, peeling, severe rash)
- Muscle pain with fever and feeling unwell
- Suicidal thoughts or behavior
- Signs of heart failure (shortness of breath, swelling, rapid weight gain)
Overview of Side Effects
Like all medications, pregabalin can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild to moderate and often improve as your body adjusts to the medication. Side effects are generally dose-related and more common when starting treatment or increasing doses.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur in more than 5% of patients:
Dizziness (29%)
Description: Feeling unsteady or lightheaded
Management: Usually improves with time; avoid sudden movements
When to worry: If severe or persistent
Drowsiness (22%)
Description: Feeling sleepy or tired
Management: Avoid driving; may improve over time
When to worry: If affecting daily activities
Peripheral Edema (16%)
Description: Swelling in hands, feet, or ankles
Management: Elevate legs; monitor weight
When to worry: If rapid or severe swelling
Blurred Vision (12%)
Description: Difficulty focusing or seeing clearly
Management: Usually temporary; avoid driving if affected
When to worry: If vision changes are severe or persistent
Weight Gain (8%)
Description: Increase in body weight
Management: Monitor diet; regular exercise
When to worry: If rapid weight gain (>5 lbs/week)
Difficulty Concentrating (6%)
Description: Problems with focus or thinking
Management: May improve with time
When to worry: If significantly impacting work or daily life
Less Common Side Effects (1-5%)
Nervous System
- Confusion
- Memory problems
- Coordination problems
- Tremor
- Speech problems
Gastrointestinal
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Flatulence
Other
- Fatigue
- Increased appetite
- Headache
- Joint swelling
- Muscle pain
Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Contact Your Doctor Immediately
These side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention:
Serious Allergic Reactions
- Swelling of face, mouth, lips, gums, tongue, or throat
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Rash, hives, or blisters
Action: Stop medication and seek emergency care
Suicidal Thoughts
- New or worsening depression
- Thoughts of suicide or self-harm
- Unusual changes in mood or behavior
Action: Contact healthcare provider immediately
Heart Problems
- Shortness of breath
- Rapid weight gain
- Swelling that worsens
Action: Seek medical attention promptly
Muscle Problems
- Muscle pain with fever
- Muscle pain with feeling unwell
- Severe muscle weakness
Action: Stop medication and contact doctor
Managing Side Effects
Dizziness & Drowsiness
- Avoid driving or operating machinery
- Rise slowly from sitting or lying
- Stay hydrated
- Avoid alcohol
Weight Gain
- Monitor your weight regularly
- Maintain a balanced diet
- Exercise regularly as tolerated
- Discuss with doctor if significant
Swelling
- Elevate affected limbs when possible
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing
- Monitor for rapid changes
- Report if worsening
Cognitive Effects
- Use memory aids if needed
- Avoid complex tasks initially
- Give yourself extra time
- May improve with time
Special Considerations
Elderly Patients
Higher risk of falls due to dizziness and drowsiness. May need lower starting doses and closer monitoring.
Kidney Impairment
Side effects may be more pronounced due to slower drug clearance. Dose adjustment required.
Diabetes Patients
Monitor blood sugar levels as pregabalin may affect glucose control. Weight gain may impact diabetes management.
Heart Conditions
Monitor for worsening heart failure symptoms, especially fluid retention and swelling.
When to Contact Your Doctor
Contact immediately for:
- Signs of allergic reaction
- Suicidal thoughts or mood changes
- Severe dizziness or fainting
- Rapid weight gain or severe swelling
- Breathing problems
- Severe muscle pain with fever
Schedule appointment for:
- Persistent or bothersome side effects
- Gradual weight gain
- Vision changes
- Coordination problems
- Memory or concentration issues