Back pain is one of the most common reasons people visit a doctor. While many cases improve with rest and simple treatments, others involve nerve-related pain that can be difficult to manage. Pregabalin is a medicine sometimes used for this type of pain. In this blog, we will explain how it works, who it’s usually prescribed for, and the important things to know if you are considering it.

What is Pregabalin?

Pregabalin is a prescription-based medication available as the brand-name Lyrica. It is also available as a generic version. Generic versions typically cost less than their brand-name counterparts, but have the same effectiveness and are safe.

Pregabalin is used as a part of combination therapy. This means an individual may need to take it with other drugs [1].

Indications

• Pregabalin is used as a combination therapy for managing partial seizures in adults and pediatric patients (one month of age or older).
• Neuropathic pain associated with Postherpetic Neuralgia and  Diabetic Neuropathy, and Spinal Cord Injury.
• Fibromyalgia [2].

An Overview of Back Pain

Back pain is defined as the soreness, discomfort, or pain felt anywhere along the spine, from the neck down to the lower back. It is a symptom of a sprain, strain, spine disorder or condition affecting organs in your belly or pelvis.

Back pain can range from mild to severe, and it may spread to your legs or other parts of your body [3].

Is Pregabalin Good For Lower Back Pain?

In a study by Carlos Cordero-Garcia et al., it was concluded that Pregabalin, when combined with other treatments, has demonstrated effectiveness in the management of lower back pain. Some of the notable benefits include a significant reduction in pain, as well as improvements in associated symptoms like depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and overall quality of life. However, these findings should be interpreted cautiously due to the overall limited quality of the available evidence.

Pregabalin should not be prescribed as first-line treatment for back pain. They may be considered only when there is a clear neuropathic component like radiculopathy, and even then, they should be recommended at the lowest effective dose for a short duration.

According to the guidelines by the American College of Physicians, the first approach for relieving back pain should be non-drug treatments such as exercise, heat, physical therapy, or massage. If medication is required, muscle relaxants or NSAIDs are prescribed before other options.

The FDA has not issued any specific guidelines stating that Pregabalin should not be taken for addressing back pain. However, this medication is approved for neuropathic pain and not for general back pain [4].

How does pregabalin work for pain?

For reducing back pain, Pregabalin’s mechanism of action involves controlling brain chemicals that send signals to nerves, to reduce the level of pain you experience. It helps alleviate the pain you are feeling, so you can do everyday activities and have a better quality of life [5].

What To Do When Pregabalin Doesn’t Work For Your Pain?

If Pregabalin capsules (Nervigesic) are not working for your back pain, you should consult your doctor or pain specialist. However, do not stop taking this drug suddenly, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms.

Side Effects

Pregabalin can cause mild or serious adverse effects. The following lists contain some of the common side effects that may occur while taking this medicine [6].

• Blurry vision
• Weight gain
• Weakness
• Dry mouth
• Dizziness
• Difficulty concentrating
• Swelling in your hand or feet.

Serious side effects include –

• Allergic reactions, signs can include swelling of your lips, throat, gums, tongue , neck, face, or mouth.
• Suicidal thoughts and signs can include depression, suicide attempts, panic attacks, insomnia, irritability, episodes of mania, new or worsened irritability, and acting angry, aggressive, or violent.
• Fluid retention, symptoms include pain in the chest.

Note – If you notice any severe side effects after taking Pregabalin for pain management, seek emergency help.

Precautions and warnings

• Take Pregabalin capsules exactly as prescribed by your doctor. The dose varies from one person to another. Therefore, it’s important that you follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully.
• Before you start the treatment with this medicine, read the manufacturer’s printed information leaflet that is provided inside the pack.
• Pregalin is not suitable for people with certain health conditions. For this reason, it is important that your doctor knows-

1. If you are a breastfeeding mother or pregnant.
2. If you have any problems with your heart, kidney, or liver.
3. If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medication.
4. If you have ever had alcohol or drug dependence problems.
5. If you are taking any other medicines, including prescription or over-the-counter medicines [7].

Alternative Treatments for Back Pain

Back pain treatment depends on its type and cause. Your doctor may recommend one or more of the following treatments to manage the underlying cause and or ease your pain [8].

Home treatments

At-home treatment for back pain can involve:

• Gentle movement or stretching
• Resting
• Applying an ice pack or a hot compress.

Medications

If you do not find effective results from home remedies, you may require a prescription drug. This could involve muscle relaxers like Carisoprodol, also known as Soma pills, anti-inflammatory drugs, or neuromodulating drugs.

Physical therapy

Physical therapy may help reduce back pain from injuries or a curved spine, among other causes.

A physical therapist may help a patient strengthen certain muscles, improve flexibility in tight muscles, or both. It is advisable to practice the techniques regularly, even after your pain has improved.

Complementary therapies

Complementary therapies that may help with back pain are

• Yoga
• Acupuncture
• Massage

Conclusion

Back pain is common, but the right treatment depends on the cause behind it.  Pregabalin may help when the pain is nerve-related, but it is not usually the first treatment option and should only be taken if prescribed by a doctor. For most people, simple steps like exercise, heat, physical therapy, or other medications work well. Always talk to your healthcare provider to find the safest and most effective treatment plan for your specific situation.