Pregabalin abuse leading to addiction: a case report

VernacularTitle:滥用普瑞巴林致成瘾1例
Author: Yujian YE ¹ ; Yan ZHAO ; Meiti WANG ; Yin CUI ; Junfeng LIANG ; Haifeng JIANG ; Jiang DU
Author Information

1. 上海交通大学医学院附属精神卫生中心物质依赖科　国家精神疾病医学中心-成瘾障碍临床诊疗中心，上海　200030
Publication Type:Journal Article
Keywords: Pregabalin; Withdrawal symptoms; Anxiety disorder; Addiction; OD
From: Chinese Journal of Psychiatry 2025;58(7):553-555
CountryChina
Language:Chinese
Abstract: Pregabalin, a structural analog of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), has been widely prescribed since its approval in 2004 for treating various neuropathic pain conditions. In Western countries, it is also approved for managing anxiety disorders. However, concerns about its potential for abuse and dependence have led to its reclassification as a second-line treatment in recent years. Although pregabalin addiction has been reported in international studies, there have been no such reports within China. This article presents a case of addiction stemming from pregabalin abuse to manage anxiety symptoms. The patient experienced withdrawal symptoms after discontinuing the drug, which were successfully treated. The development of pregabalin addiction, withdrawal symptoms, and the OD(overdose) pattern of drug abuse in this case should draw the attention of clinicians in China.