Pregabalin, a drug used for epilepsy, pain relief, anxiety, and depression, is highly addictive and linked to rising fatalities in the UK. It's classified as a class C drug and has led to a growing black market. Mixing it with other drugs can lead to overdoses.
Key Points
Classified as a class C drug
Growing black market for the drug
Not interchangeable with Gabapentin
Interaction warnings with alcohol, SSRIs, benzodiazepines, and opioids
Common side effects include headaches, nausea, fatigue, mood swings
Withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly
Pros
Effective in treating epilepsy, pain, anxiety, and depression