Pregabalin side effects

[Theonlypetied]

I read on here from another member that listed weak thighs as a side effect of Pregabalin. It seems to me that I have developed very weak thighs since starting Pregab. Just wondering if any more folk have experienced the same? Thank you.

[SueJohnson]

Muscle weakness is a possible side effect. If you decide to come off it, do so very slowly like 25 mg every 2 weeks to avoid withdrawal effects. If you do so you will have none.

[Beater in reply to SueJohnson]

Hi Sue, I've noticed that you have quite an extensive knowledge on some medications. I'm on 150mg of pregabalin and suffering with a frozen shoulder after 2 years of being bedridden from the meds after open heart surgery. Such a long story. Anyhow, I need to come off the pregabalin and not one dr. or pharmacist seems to know that you have to taper. I'm in Canada where they have learned to play stupid with our lives. I take 100mg at 10pm before bedtime and 50mg at 11 am. I think it's helping very slightly with the zingers but certainly not helping with other pain. I was wondering if you had any idea of a safe taper having read your response to the OP. I would really appreciate your input. I know that you are not a Dr. and just looking for your opinion. Thank you for reading.

[SueJohnson in reply to Beater]

I am so sorry to hear what you have been through! On the pregabalin reduce by 25 mg every couple of weeks.

Have you had your ferritin checked? If so, what was it? Improving your ferritin to 100 or more helps 60% of people with RLS and in some cases completely eliminates their symptoms. If not when you see your doctor ask for a full iron panel. Stop taking any iron supplements including multivitamins that have iron in them 48 hours before the test, don't eat a heavy meat meal the night before, fast after midnight and have your test in the morning before 9 am if possible. When you get the results, ask for your ferritin and transferrin saturation (TSAT) numbers. You want your transferrin saturation to be over 20% but less than 45% and your ferritin to be at least 100. If they are not, post them here and we can give you some advice.

some things that can make RLS symptoms worse for some people are alcohol, nicotine, caffeine, sugar, carbs, foods high in sodium, foods that cause inflammation, ice cream, eating late at night, estrogen including HRT, dehydration, MSG, collagen supplements, electrolyte imbalance, melatonin, stress and vigorous exercise. Some things that help some people include caffeine, moderate exercise, weighted blankets, compression socks, elastic bandages, masturbation, magnesium glycinate, fennel, low oxalate diet, selenium, 5 minute shower alternating 20 seconds cold water with 10 seconds hot water finishing with hot water for another couple of minutes, hot baths, distractions, CBD, applying a topical magnesium lotion or spray, doing a magnesium salts soak, vitamins B1, B3, B6, B12, D3, K2, if deficient, and potassium and copper if deficient, massage including using a massage gun, vibration devices, using a standing desk, listening to music, meditation and yoga.

Many medicines and OTC supplements can make RLS worse. If you are taking any and you list them here, I can tell you if any make RLS symptoms worse and if so may be able to give you a safe substitute.

[Beater in reply to SueJohnson]

Thank you so much for your response. I actually don't have rls however I am experiencing many similar issues and the medication advice is what brought me to you. I have had every test under the sun including ct scans, MRI's, ultrasounds, xrays, you name it. They all came back fine apparently. They keep putting me on meds that I can't tolerate and can't get follow ups for 6 to 12 months and by then I'm physically dependent on them. It's been a very long crazy and abusive experience and I'll be happy with just a couple of pain free years without addictive meds. Meditation is not cutting it. What are pregabalin withdrawals like and how long does it usually last.

[SueJohnson in reply to Beater]

That is extremely discouraging. If you reduce slowly like I suggested you won't have any withdrawal effects.

[Beater in reply to SueJohnson]

Thank you so much.

[nick-the-turk]

Been on pregabalin for a good few years now not notice weak thighs the only side effect I've experienced is weight gain its either the pregabalin or codeine phosphate I take

[Theonlypetied in reply to nick-the-turk]

Weight gain! Sorry to hear that. My weight gain is down to comfort and boredom eating when I can’t sleep.🥴

[nick-the-turk in reply to Theonlypetied]

I've managed to get that part under control excercise I walk anything upto 15 miles a day and burn off nearly 1100 calories sleep 3 hours broken a night on a good night so that's why I've put it down to meds

[Beater]

It effects my entire body. It makes me feel like I am drunk on cheap wine and I bounce all over the place. It works wonders for some but it's a nightmare for others. I think that I will ask Sue for some advice.

[Theonlypetied in reply to Beater]

Sorry to hear that. It must be awful.

[Beater in reply to Theonlypetied]

Thank you. I didn't mean to hijack your post. I just came back from a walk and my calves are killing me. I never put it together.