Pregabalin

(CC) Image: David E. Volk
Pregabalin and gabapentin are structurally similar to GABA.

Pregabalin is structurally similar to gabapentin. It is also similar to the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and although it does not act on GABA receptors, it may increase the "density of GABA transporter protein and increases the rate of functional GABA transport". It is approved by the FDA for neuropathic pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy, postherpetic neuralgia adjunctive therapy for adult patients with partial onset seizures, and fibromyalgia.

chemistry

The IUPAC chemical name for pregabalin is (S)-(+)-3-(aminomethyl)-5-methylhexanoic acid. Its chemical formula is C₈H₁₇NO₂ giving it a molecular mass of 159.23 g/mol. It is both an amine and a carboxylic acid.

External links

The most up-to-date information about Pregabalin and other drugs can be found at the following sites.

• Pregabalin - FDA approved drug information (drug label) from DailyMed (U.S. National Library of Medicine).
• Pregabalin - Drug information for consumers from MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine).
• Pregabalin - Detailed information from DrugBank.