ObjectiveTo evaluate the efficacy of preoperative oral pregabalin for attenuating postoperative pain after laparoscopic cholecystectomy.MethodsIn this prospective,randomized controlled double-blind study,sixty ASA Ⅰ or Ⅱ patients aged 19-72 yr weighing 46-86 kg undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy were randomly divided into 2 groups ( n =30 each):control group (group C) received placebo,and pregabalin group (group P) received oral pregabalin 150 mg 1 h before surgery.Anesthesia was induced with propofol,fentanyl and rocuronium and maintained with sevoflurane inhalation and intermittent iv boluses of fentanyl and rocuronium.The patients were intubated and mechanically ventilated.BIS value was maintained at 40-50 during operation.Static and dynamic VAS score,Ramsay score and consumption of morphine were recorded at 6,12,and 24 h after surgery.Side-effects including nausea,vomiting,headache and dizziness were also recorded.ResultsStatic and dynamic VAS scores and morphine consumption were significantly lower during the first 24 h after surgery while Ramsay scores were higher at 6 h after operation in group P than in group C.There was no significant difference in the incidence of side-effects between the 2 groups.No over-sedation occurred in group P.ConclusionPreoperative oral pregabalin 150 mg is safe and effective in reducing postoperative pain after laparoscopic cholecystectomy.