Why is pregabalin a controlled substance?

Pregabalin is classified as a controlled substance in many countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. This is because the drug has a potential for abuse and dependence, particularly when taken in high doses or used in combination with other drugs.

Pregabalin is an anticonvulsant medication that is used to treat conditions such as neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia, and anxiety disorders. However, because it can produce feelings of euphoria and relaxation, some individuals may misuse the drug for recreational purposes.

To prevent misuse and addiction, many countries have placed restrictions on the prescribing and dispensing of pregabalin. For example, in the United States, pregabalin is classified as a Schedule V controlled substance, which means it has a lower potential for abuse and dependence than drugs like opioids or benzodiazepines, but still requires a prescription from a healthcare provider.

Overall, pregabalin is classified as a controlled substance to regulate its production, distribution, and use, and to prevent abuse and addiction. If you have a history of substance abuse or addiction, it’s important to discuss this with your healthcare provider before taking pregabalin to determine if it is an appropriate treatment option for you.


There are various forms of drugs available, such as tablets or liquids, and each may have a separate patient information leaflet (PIL) for different doses. It is important to refer to the PIL for the specific form and dose of the drug that you have been prescribed.

You can search for further information and PILs on websites such as:

  • The British National Formulary (BNF)
  • Electronic medicines compendium (emc)
  • The National Library of Medicine's DailyMed
  • The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 
  • Different drug forms like tablets or liquids have specific patient information leaflets (PIL) for various doses. Refer to the PIL for your prescribed drug form and dose.

    Search for PILs on websites like:

    France

    • ANSM (Agence nationale de sécurité du médicament et des produits de santé): ansm.sante.fr

    Spain

    • AEMPS (Agencia Española de Medicamentos y Productos Sanitarios): aemps.gob.es

    Germany

    • BfArM (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte): bfarm.de

    Italy

    For questions about your medication:

    • Consult your doctor, a healthcare professional, or a pharmacist

    France

    • Contact SOS Médecins: 3624
    • For mental health support, contact SOS Suicide: 01 45 39 40 00

    Belgium (French)

    Switzerland (French)

    • La Main Tendue: 143
    • Website: 143.ch

    Canada (French)

    • Centre de prévention du suicide du Québec: 1 866 APPELLE (1 866 277-3553)
    • Website: cpsquebec.ca

    Spain

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Teléfono de la Esperanza: 717 003 717

    Germany

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Telefonseelsorge: 0800 111 0 111 or 0800 111 0 222

    Italy

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Telefono Amico: 199 284 284

    Netherlands

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact 113 Zelfmoordpreventie: 0800 0113

    Portugal

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Sos Voz Amiga: 21 354 45 45, 91 280 26 69, or 96 352 46 60

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