Pregabalin

Pregabalin

Drug monograph · NCLEX study reference
Trade names	Lyrica
Therapeutic class	Anticonvulsant, neuropathic analgesic
Pharmacologic class	Calcium channel alpha-2-delta ligand (controlled C-V)
Onset / peak / duration	Onset within days.
Half-life / level	Half-life about 6 hours; level not routine.
Routes	PO (oral)
High-alert (ISMP)	No
Black box warning	None
Antidote / reversal	None.
Pregnancy / lactation	Use if needed.

Nursing pharmacology study reference (NCLEX-style monograph). Numeric values are standard teaching ranges for study and must be verified against current manufacturer labeling before clinical use. This is educational content, not prescribing guidance.

Pregabalin (brand name Lyrica) — Anticonvulsant, neuropathic analgesic; Calcium channel alpha-2-delta ligand (controlled C-V).

Identification

• Therapeutic class: Anticonvulsant, neuropathic analgesic.
• Pharmacologic class: Calcium channel alpha-2-delta ligand (controlled C-V).

Pharmacology

• Mechanism of action: Same as gabapentin with more predictable absorption.
• Onset / peak / duration: Onset within days.
• Half-life / therapeutic level: Half-life about 6 hours; level not routine.

Clinical use

• Indications: Neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia, focal seizures.
• Usual dose, route, frequency: Titrated PO two to three times daily.
• Maximum dose / adjustments: Reduce in renal impairment.

Safety

• Contraindications: Hypersensitivity.
• Black box warning: None (opioid combination respiratory warning applies).
• Interactions: Opioids and CNS depressants.
• Pregnancy / lactation: Use if needed.
• High-alert: No.

Adverse effects

• Common side effects: Dizziness, somnolence, edema, weight gain.
• Serious effects to report: Respiratory depression with opioids, angioedema, mood changes.
• Antidote / reversal: None.

Nursing process

• Assessment before administration: Renal function, pain baseline.
• Interventions during therapy: Taper to stop.
• Monitor: Pain control, sedation, renal function.
• Evaluation / expected outcome: Reduced pain.

Patient teaching

• Patient teaching: Do not stop abruptly; it is a controlled substance.
• Notify provider if: Trouble breathing, swelling, mood changes.
• Administration tips: With or without food; taper to discontinue.