Flashcards
Gabapentin and Pregabalin
Flashcards do conjunto (4)
- 1Indications for gabapentin & pregabalin.• Focal epilepsies - usually as an add-on Rx when other antiepileptic drugs aren't adequate
• Neuropathic P
• Migraine prophylaxis (gabapentin)
• GAD (pregabalin) - 2MOA of gabapentin & pregabalin.From a structural point of view, gabapentin is closely related to γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), the major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain. However, its MOA, although not completely understood, appears largely unrelated to GABA. It binds with voltage-sensitive calcium (Ca2+) channels, where it presumably prevents inflow of Ca2+ &, in so doing, inhibits neurotransmitter release. This interferes with synaptic transmission & reduces neuronal excitability. Pregabalin is a structural analogue of gabapentin that probably has a similar mechanism of action.
- 3SE's of gabapentin & pregabalin.• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Ataxia - 4CI's, cautions, & important interactions of gabapentin & pregabalin.CI's:
• None
Cautions:
• Renal impairment (reduce dose)
Important interactions:
The sedative effects of gabapentin & pregabalin may be enhanced when combined with other sedating drugs (eg benzodiazepines). Other than this, gabapentin & pregabalin are notable in having relatively few drug interactions – in stark contrast to most other antiepileptic drugs. This makes them particularly useful where combination regimens are considered necessary.