Although there are many similarities between gabapentin and pregabalin, there are clear differences between them in several aspects. Therefore, a doctor may choose to prescribe pregabalin for you while prescribing gabapentin for someone else with the same problem. Why is this? It comes down to the fundamental differences between the two drugs, which we will discuss in detail in this article by Dalili Medical. If you are looking for an alternative to pregabalin and wondering if gabapentin could be a suitable alternative, here is the answer and all the information you need to know about both drugs.

**Does gabapentin affect fertility?**

 

To date, there is no evidence to suggest that taking gabapentin negatively affects fertility in men or women. However, it is advisable to discuss pregnancy plans with your doctor, as he may adjust your dose or change the medication if necessary.

**Can Pregabalin or Gabapentin be used during pregnancy?**

 

You should avoid taking Pregabalin or Gabapentin during pregnancy or breastfeeding without consulting your doctor, to avoid any health complications that may affect you or the fetus.

**Does Gabapentin cause drowsiness?**

 

One of the most prominent side effects of Gabapentin is drowsiness, so it is usually preferable to take the dose before bed to avoid feeling sleepy during the day.

**Does Gabapentin treat nerve inflammation?**

 

Gabapentin is an anti-epileptic drug and is used to relieve pain resulting from nerve inflammation, according to the US Food and Drug Administration

Is Gabapentin an alternative to Pregabalin?

 

Yes, Gabapentin is an alternative to Pregabalin, as it has similar effects and is used to treat the same problems. Gabapentin is classified as an anticonvulsant like Pregabalin.

Is Gabapentin a treatment or a painkiller?

 

Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant medication used to control epileptic seizures or convulsions, and is also used to treat some neurological conditions, such as diabetic neuropathy and nerve pain resulting from shingles.

What are the benefits of gabapentin treatment?

 

Gabapentin has many benefits, as it helps control epileptic seizures, treat nerve pain resulting from the herpes virus, in addition to treating restless legs syndrome and some cases of bipolar disorder.

Is pregabalin considered a scheduled drug?

 

Yes, pregabalin is considered a scheduled drug due to the possibility of addiction, as it is classified in the fifth category, which is the category with the least potential to cause addiction. This medication is dispensed only with a prescription, and must be used according to the doctor's instructions, and care must be taken not to stop taking it suddenly.

Is gabapentin considered a strong pain reliever?

 

Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant medication, and it is characterized by analgesic properties due to its effect on sending pain signals in the body, which makes it prescribed by doctors to treat nerve pain.

Does gabapentin cause drowsiness?

 

Drowsiness and sleepiness are common symptoms that may appear when starting to take gabapentin, so it is advised not to drive a car or use sharp or heavy machinery after taking it for your safety.

What are the alternatives to pregabalin?

 

There are several alternative medications that contain pregabalin, such as Lyrica, Lyrica, Pregaba, and Gablovac.

What are the alternatives to gabapentin?

 

There are several alternative medications that contain gabapentin, such as Neurontin, Gabapentin, Neuroplex, and Gabin.

Does gabapentin appear in drug tests?

 

Gabapentin can appear in drug tests, whether urine or blood tests, if they are performed during the period of the drug's stay in the body, which varies from person to person based on the duration and dose of use.

**Does pregabalin and gabapentin cause addiction?**

 

Yes, both pregabalin and gabapentin can lead to addiction if used outside of medical supervision, or if high doses are taken, or used for longer periods than recommended. This is due to the effect of these two drugs on the balance of chemicals in the brain, which may lead to physical and psychological dependence when misused. Therefore, doctors specializing in addiction treatment are advised to adhere to the prescribed doses and not to use these drugs without a prescription, to avoid the risk of addiction and increased side effects and complications.

**What is Pregabalin?**

 

Pregabalin is a drug used to treat nerve pain resulting from herpes, epileptic seizures, or diabetic neuropathy. The trade name for Pregabalin is "Lyrica". This medicine is available in the form of an oral solution or capsules in different concentrations, which are:

- 25 mg

- 50 mg

- 75 mg

- 100 mg

- 150 mg

- 200 mg

- 225 mg

- 300 mg

**How ​​long does Pregabalin stay in the body**

 

The duration of Pregabalin in the urine ranges from 10 hours to 5 days, while in the blood it ranges from 12 hours to 4 days. It can also be detected in a hair analysis for up to 90 days after the last dose.

**How ​​long does Pregabalin stay in the urine**

 

When Pregabalin is used for the first time, the substance remains in the urine for 12 hours. If the person is not addicted, the duration of its stay in the urine reaches 48 hours. For addicted people, the duration of Pregabalin in the urine ranges from two to five days.

**How ​​long does Pregabalin stay in the blood**

 

When taken for the first time, Pregabalin stays in the blood for 12 hours. If the person is not addicted, it stays in the blood for up to 48 hours, while this period reaches 3 days for addicts.

**Pregabalin drug concentrations**

Pregabalin is available under the trade name "Lyrica" ​​in several concentrations and pharmaceutical forms, as follows:

- Pregabalin capsules with concentrations: 25 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg, 225 mg, 300 mg.

- Pregabalin oral solution with a concentration of 20 mg/ml.

- Pregabalin tablets.

**Uses of Pregabalin**

The uses approved for Pregabalin by the US Food and Drug Administration include treating the following conditions

- Treating fibromyalgia.

- Relieving nerve pain resulting from shingles infection.

- Treating nerve pain associated with diabetes.

- Contributing to the treatment of spinal cord injuries.

- Treating epilepsy.

What is Gabapentin?

 

Gabapentin is the trade name for Neurontin, and is characterized by being absorbed more slowly than gabapentin. This drug is used to treat seizures, nerve pain resulting from shingles, in addition to treating bipolar disorder. Gabapentin is available in the form of an oral solution, as well as in the form of capsules and tablets in different concentrations including:

- 100 mg

- 300 mg

- 400 mg

- 600 mg

- 800 mg.

How long does gabapentin stay in the body**

 

The duration of gabapentin in the urine ranges from 12 hours to 5 days, while in the blood it ranges from 12 hours to 3 days. It can also be detected in hair analysis for up to 90 days after the last dose.

**How ​​long does gabapentin stay in urine**

 

When used for the first time, gabapentin stays in the urine for 12 hours. If the person is not addicted, it stays for up to two days, while it can last up to 5 days in the case of addicts.

**How ​​long does gabapentin stay in the blood**

 

The duration of gabapentin stay in the blood ranges between 8 and 12 hours when used for the first time. If the person is not addicted, the substance stays in the blood for two days, while it reaches 4 days in the case of addicts.

**Gabapentin drug concentrations**

Gabapentin drug concentrations are available in several forms, and the doctor determines the appropriate concentration based on the health condition and age. Available concentrations include:

- Gabapentin capsules with concentrations of 100 mg and 300 mg.

- Gabapentin tablets in concentrations of 100 mg, 300 mg, 400 mg, 600 mg, and 800 mg.

- Gabapentin solution in concentration of 250 mg. Gabapentin is usually taken as directed by the doctor.

**Uses of Gabapentin**

Gabapentin has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration to treat a range of problems associated with nerve pain and seizures. The following are its most prominent uses:

- Controlling epileptic seizures.

- Treating nerve pain resulting from shingles.

- Relieving nerve pain resulting from shingles.

- Treating restless legs syndrome.

- It is used as part of the treatment of bipolar disorder with some other medications.

- Treating symptoms associated with menopause.

Here are the differences between gabapentin and pregabalin:

**Trade name** Pregabalin is available in pharmacies under the trade name "Lyrica", while gabapentin is known by several trade names such as "Neurontin", "Conventin", and "Gabapentin".

**Drug schedule** Pregabalin is classified as a narcotic, while gabapentin is not considered a narcotic, but both require a prescription when dispensed to avoid abuse. Although gabapentin is not a narcotic, it can cause a feeling of euphoria, and many cases of its abuse have been recorded.

**Effect** Pregabalin is considered more effective than gabapentin in treating psychosis, and it also helps reduce the severity of epileptic seizures and enhances better nerve healing.

**Withdrawal symptoms**

Withdrawal symptoms can appear when suddenly stopping the use of both drugs. Among the symptoms of gabapentin withdrawal are:

- Nausea and vomiting.

- Dizziness.

- Anxiety and insomnia.

- Excessive sweating.

- Drowsiness.

- Extreme fatigue.

Pregabalin withdrawal symptoms include:

- Diarrhea.

- Trouble sleeping.

- Sweating.

- Anxiety.

- Headache.

- Nausea.

**Side effects**

Although the side effects of both drugs are similar, some studies suggest that pregabalin may have fewer side effects than gabapentin.

**Side effects of Gabapentin:**

- Drowsiness

- Dizziness

- Tremor

- Headache

- Blurred vision

- Memory impairment

- Dry mouth

- Constipation

- Increased appetite and weight

- Back or joint pain

- Runny nose

- Red eyes

- Shortness of breath

- Swelling of the face or tongue

**Side effects of Pregabalin:**

- Headache

- Dry mouth

- Constipation

- Increased appetite and weight

- Back pain

- Shortness of breath

- Memory problems

**Warnings and precautions for using Gabapentin**

This medicine should be taken under full medical supervision, while adhering to the doses prescribed by the doctor.

In case of forgetting a dose, it should be taken immediately unless the time for the next dose is close, and the dose should not be doubled.

If you are taking any antacids, it is preferable to take Gabapentin two hours after taking the antacids.

The medication should not be stopped without consulting a specialist doctor.

This medication should be avoided with morphine.

Caution should be exercised when using the medication while driving or handling sharp machinery, as it may cause blurred vision.

**What are the side effects of Gabapentin pills?**

 

There are a number of side effects that you may experience when taking Gabapentin pills, and knowing them may help you deal with them or manage them better.

Gabapentin pills cause some potential side effects, which may appear in some people and not others.

Let's now review the most common side effects of Gabapentin pills and how to manage them:

**Drowsiness, fatigue, and dizziness* These symptoms may disappear after you take the medication regularly for a week or two, as your body usually adapts to Gabapentin pills.

If these symptoms persist, your doctor may adjust the prescribed dose or even change the medication.

**Blurred vision** You may experience blurred vision when taking Gabapentin pills, in addition to rapid eye movements that may be beyond your control and double vision. Therefore, it is preferable to avoid driving or using tools and machines during this period. If these symptoms persist for more than two days, you should consult your doctor, as your treatment plan may need to be modified.

**Headache** Headache can appear as one of the side effects of Gabapentin pills, and it is oftenIt usually lasts for the first week, but usually goes away after that. So, it is recommended to drink water and fluids, maintain rest, and contact your doctor if symptoms persist.

**Weight gain**Your appetite and hunger may increase when taking gabapentin pills, which can make it difficult to control your weight and prevent it from gaining. It can be helpful to follow a healthy, balanced diet, and stay away from high-calorie foods such as French fries, cakes, cookies, and sweets.

**Erectile dysfunction**One of the side effects of gabapentin pills is the possibility of erectile dysfunction. Therefore, it is recommended to talk to your doctor about other treatment options that may help treat this problem.

**Digestive disorders**Digestive disorders are common side effects of gabapentin pills, as a person may feel nausea and vomiting, in addition to diarrhea and dry mouth.

It is important to keep your body hydrated and avoid dehydration by drinking water and fluids regularly.

One of the most prominent signs of dehydration that you should watch for is a decrease in the number of times you urinate, in addition to the appearance of dark urine with a strong odor.

**Increased risk of infection**Increased risk of infection is a side effect of gabapentin, which negatively affects the immune system, making you more susceptible to many infectious diseases.

**Behavioral problems and psychological disorders**Gabapentin can cause some behavioral problems, especially in children aged three to twelve who suffer from epileptic seizures.

**Depression**Like other antiepileptic medications, gabapentin may increase the risk of psychological problems, including suicidal thoughts, especially in young people under the age of 25.

**Sudden discontinuation syndrome**The main symptoms of this syndrome include anxiety, insomnia, nausea, pain, and sweating. These are some of the most prominent side effects of gabapentin, and they occur when you stop taking them suddenly. Therefore, it is always advisable to stop using them gradually according to the doctor’s instructions. It is important to note that what is mentioned here does not cover all the side effects of gabapentin, but rather highlights the most common ones. Therefore, if you feel any side effects after using the medicine, it is preferable to consult a doctor.

**Pregabalin Use Warnings**

There are some important warnings that you should be aware of before taking Pregabalin, which are:

- Pregabalin should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

- It is not allowed to be used by children except after consulting a specialist doctor.

- It is preferable not to use it by the elderly.

- Avoid taking Pregabalin if you are going to drive, as it may affect vision in some cases.

- It is recommended not to drink alcohol while taking Pregabalin because it may increase drowsiness.

- If you are going to undergo surgery, including dental surgery, you should first inform your doctor that you are taking Pregabalin.

What are the side effects of Pregabalin capsules?

 

If you experience any of the following symptoms, please contact your doctor immediately or go to the nearest hospital for appropriate treatment:

1. **Allergic reaction to the medicine**

This may appear through:

- Difficulty breathing. 

- Noticeable swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, throat, and neck. 

- The appearance of a rash and blisters covering large areas of the body.

2. **Suicidal thoughts or a desire to harm oneself**

Symptoms include:

- Chest pain. 

- Panic attacks. 

- Difficulty sleeping and insomnia. 

- Increased nervousness and violence. 

- Thinking about death and suicide attempts. 

- A constant feeling of distress and discomfort. 

- Depression and severe anxiety. 

- Episodes of emotional outbursts or mania, such as increased activity and unusual talkativeness.

3. **Interaction with certain medications and health conditions**   It is important to talk to your doctor about your current health condition, medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking, to avoid any complications. The risk of harm from Pregabalin capsules may increase when taking the following medications:

Some diabetes medications include: rosiglitazone and pioglitazone.

There are also some central pain relievers (narcotic medications) such as: oxycodone.

In addition, there are medications to treat high blood pressure such as: captopril, enalapril, and lisinopril.

Sleep aids and anxiety medications include: lorazepam.

You should also be careful with alcohol consumption.

In cases of kidney disease, it may be necessary to use lower doses of the drug to avoid its accumulation in the body, which may lead to negative effects due to its insufficient elimination through the kidneys.

In some cases of heart disease, such as heart failure, using Pregabalin may worsen the symptoms of the disease.

Caution should also be exercised when using the drug with mental illnesses such as depression, as the effects of pregabalin capsules can increase the severity of depression and suicidal thoughts.

What are the similarities between gabapentin and pregabalin?

 

Since pregabalin and gabapentin belong to the same drug class, there are many similarities between them, including:

- The two drugs are similar in their mechanism of action, as they bind to certain pathways in the nervous system.

- The use of gabapentin and pregabalin has been linked to abuse and physical dependence in some countries, which led to their inclusion in the narcotic substance schedule.

- Some side effects of both drugs are similar, such as dizziness, drowsiness, loss of balance, memory problems, tremors, and blurred vision.

- Both drugs cause withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking them after a period of use.

**How ​​to Treat Pregabalin or Gabapentin Addiction**

 

You cannot get rid of physical or psychological dependence on Pregabalin or Gabapentin on your own, as this involves significant risks. The withdrawal symptoms you may experience can lead to health complications that may be difficult to control.ML, which increases the likelihood of relapse.

**Diagnosis**

The patient's addiction history is evaluated and the necessary tests are conducted to determine a treatment program that suits his condition.

**Detoxification** This stage is considered the real beginning of treatment, as the patient stops taking the drug completely. Withdrawal symptoms are dealt with according to a drug protocol that varies from one person to another.

**Psychological and behavioral therapy** After cleansing the body of toxins, this must be followed by psychological and behavioral therapy to maintain recovery. The patient undergoes a rehabilitation program that helps him integrate into society without any difficulties.

**Follow-up** Continuous communication between the recovering addict and the doctor even after the end of treatment contributes to creating a safe and supportive environment, which reduces the chances of relapse. Therefore, we are always keen to stay in touch with our patients.

**Gabapentin and Mood** Gabapentin is primarily used to treat seizures and nerve pain. After taking this medication, the person feels comfortable, relaxed and has an improved mood, thanks to its strong effect on some natural substances in the brain responsible for the feeling of euphoria. For this reason, many patients who use gabapentin may fall into the trap of addiction. Therefore, if your doctor prescribes this medication, you must adhere to the specified dose without increasing or decreasing it, and do not stop taking it suddenly even if you feel better. It is necessary to consult a doctor if any changes occur. **Gabapentin and nerve pain**Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant medication used to treat nerve pain. It has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat nerve pain resulting from shingles, and is also used in cases of diabetic neuropathy. This is due to gabapentin's ability to inhibit the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain and the signals it sends to the body, which helps reduce the severity of nerve pain and reduces the occurrence of seizures. Despite its effectiveness in relieving severe nerve pain, it is warned against using it without a prescription or overusing it unnecessarily.