Risks
Known undesirable side effects are dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue (sleepiness), headache, confusion, irritability, depression, disorientation, insomnia, loss of libido (desire for sex decreases), movement disorders, attention, coordination, balance, memory and speech disorders, tremors, tingling, burning or numbness (paraesthesia), reduced sensitivity to touch stimuli, apathy, blurred vision, double vision, dizziness, vomiting, constipation, flatulence, dry mouth, muscle cramps, joint, limb and back pain, cramps in the neck region, feeling drunk, sensory disturbances, exhaustion.
Overdose
At higher doses, affective disorders (mood and physical drive are not in balance over a longer period of time), drowsiness, states of confusion, depression, urge to move and restlessness may occur. Rare cases of cardiac arrhythmia, seizures and coma have been reported.
The anxiolytic, disinhibiting and euphoric properties can lead to aggression, loss of control and an increased willingness to take risks.
Long-term risks/consequences
Regular, abusive consumption of pregabalin leads to dependence with severe withdrawal symptoms such as restlessness, nervousness, seizures, sleep disorders, irritability, anger, anxiety, panic, chills and depression. As with opioids, for example, withdrawal should not be abrupt and should only take place under medical supervision.
