Pregabalin can interact with several medications and substances, which can increase the risk of side effects or reduce the effectiveness of pregabalin. It’s important to inform your healthcare provider of all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking before starting pregabalin. Here are some examples of pregabalin interactions:
- Opioids: Pregabalin can increase the risk of respiratory depression when taken with opioids, such as codeine, fentanyl, and oxycodone. Your healthcare provider may need to adjust your dose or monitor you closely if you are taking these medications together.
- Sedatives and hypnotics: Pregabalin can cause drowsiness and dizziness, and taking it with other medications that have similar effects, such as benzodiazepines and zolpidem, can increase the risk of falls and accidents.
- Alcohol: Drinking alcohol while taking pregabalin can increase the risk of drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination.
- Antihypertensive medications: Pregabalin can cause peripheral edema (swelling in the legs and feet), and taking it with medications that also have this side effect, such as calcium channel blockers and diuretics, can increase the risk of edema.
- NSAIDs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can increase the risk of kidney damage when taken with pregabalin. Your healthcare provider may need to monitor your kidney function if you are taking these medications together.
- Cimetidine: Cimetidine, a medication used to treat stomach ulcers, can increase the exposure of pregabalin in the body, which can increase the risk of side effects.
- Thiazolidinediones: Thiazolidinediones, a class of medications used to treat diabetes, can increase the risk of edema when taken with pregabalin.
It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and inform them of any new medications or supplements you plan to take while on pregabalin. They can help monitor for potential interactions and adjust your treatment plan as needed.