Status of Pregabalin Misuse in India – Emphasizing the Pressing Need for Intervention: An Integrative Review

Abstract

Pregabalin, a gamma-aminobutyric acid-analog compound, is widely used for its anticonvulsant, analgesic, anxiolytic, and euphoric effects. Globally growing evidence suggests that pregabalin misuse is an emerging public health concern. Regulatory measures are being implemented in several Western countries in response to these concerns. In India, although large-scale data remain limited, a cross-sectional study from an academic addiction treatment center reported pregabalin dependence in 135 out of 3766 registered patients (prevalence: 3.58%), highlighting its emerging misuse potential. The recent rise in case reports and series also indicates a compelling need to investigate the extent and pattern of pregabalin misuse in India. Furthermore, healthcare professionals should be vigilant while prescribing pregabalin, particularly to patients with substance use disorders. Pregabalin dispensing at the pharmacy level must be strictly regulated and monitored to mitigate potential harms.