Pregabalin, a drug commonly used to treat anxiety, depression, and neuropathic pain, has been linked to nearly 3,400 deaths, according to an investigation by the British media outlet ‘The Sunday Times’. This alarming news has raised concerns worldwide.
Medline Plus reports that pregabalin is often prescribed to relieve pain from damaged nerves, diabetic neuropathy, postherpetic neuralgia, and fibromyalgia. In Spain, the drug is sold under the names Lyrica and Pramep, and has been authorized in Europe since 2004. However, there has been a growing concern about its potential for abuse.
Due to its calming effects, pregabalin can induce a sense of well-being and relaxation. However, it also poses risks such as depression of the central nervous system, sedation, drowsiness, and potentially fatal respiratory depression. Common side effects include headaches, memory problems, weight gain, and mood changes.
Between 2021 and 2022, the UK saw a significant increase in pregabalin prescriptions, reaching eight million. In Spain, monthly sales of pregabalin rose by 50% in 2022 compared to the previous four years.
The Spanish Agency for Medicines and Health Products (AEMPS) does not recommend the off-label use of pregabalin due to the lack of consistent clinical evidence. Authorities are urging caution and raising awareness about the potential risks associated with this widely prescribed medication.