“Pregabalin?”
I have been in Pregabalin for just over weeks for anxiety. Anxiety is worse is it a side effect that will go away or does it mean this medication is not suitable. Also on venlafaxine. Thank you.
Female | 65 years old
Medications: Venfalaxine and pregabalin
Conditions: Anxiety
6 Answers
PharmaceuticalMedicinePharmacist
Would need to now doses of both and how long you've been on venlafaxine typically pregabalin stabilizes mood doesn't increase anxiety but doesn't mean it isn't possibly a side effect- just would like more info Shelley Shelley Stevens, PharmD, BCPS Clinical Pharmacy Practitioner Pain Management, Opioid Risk Mitigation NF/SG Veterans Health System O: 352-379-4086
Pregabalin is not a usual treatment for anxiety, the anxiety is more likely from the venlaxafine. You need to be on it for at least 4-6 weeks before you can see results. Best, Alex Kagzanov, PharmD. Supervising Pharmacist UrgentRx Pharmacy Phone: (718) 570-3360 Fax: (718) 228-3845
Pregabalin wouldn’t be my first choice for anxiety as it is most commonly used for neuropathy. Taking any medications for anxiety come with the risk of making the anxiety/depression worse. Most medications for anxiety/depression require at least a 6-8 week trial before any change may be noticed. If it has been that long then I would suggest a discussion with your physician about a possible change in medications.
Venlafaxine may be having opposite interaction with pregabalin. And venlafaxine may increase suicidal and other behavioral abnormalities. So may contribute to your increased anxiety.
Even though Pregabalin is used off label for anxiety, anxiety is a possible side effect. I would contact your Dr and let them know that this is occurring. They will probably change the medication.
if you believe your anxiety symptoms are worsening, please consult with your primary physician to address your concerns. In addition, you may also discuss the known potential drug interaction between venlafaxine and pregabalin - increased risk of hyponatremia (low sodium levels) with your Doctor.
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