Veterinary Medicine Uses for Pregabalin
Pregabalin is prescribed as an alternative therapy for pets that don't benefit from, or have sensitivity issues with, Phenobarbital or Potassium Bromide. In addition to being an appropriate medication for seizure control, Pregabalin also has been shown to be an effective modulator for neuropathic pain.
Potential Side-Effects of Pregabalin
Like phenobarbital, Pregabalin can decrease the activity in the Glutamate neurotransmitter in the brain. As a result, the medication also can produce a reduction in the activity in other neurons as well, and this can lead to lethargy and other unwanted side-effects. As a result, pets that are prescribed Pregabalin should be monitored closely.
Other potential side-effects of Pregabalin include dry mouth, dizziness, constipation, nausea, vomiting, gas, anxiety, and weight gain. In some cases, Pregabalin has caused a pet to experience sores, redness, and other skin irritations.
Precautions for Using Pregabalin
There are some instances in which using Pregabalin should be closely guarded. These include the pet is taking ACE inhibitors, antidepressants, antihistamines, anti-anxiety medications, narcotic pain medications, sedatives, tranquilizers, or any other anticonvulsant medication for seizure control.
Pregabalin should be avoided in pets who are pregnant or nursing, as well as in those with a known sensitivity to the drug.