Pregabalin in clinical psychiatry and addiction: pros and cons.
Pregabalin acts as a presynaptic modulator of excitatory neurotransmitter release, binding to the α²-δ subunit protein of voltage-gated calcium channels. Pregabalin use is becoming widespread in the psychiatric scenario. Data are encouraging, with some good evidence for efficacy in anxious spectrum, benzodiazepine abuse/dependence, and alcoholism. The abuse potential, however, is an issue that should be taken into account, mostly in subjects at risk for developing substance/alcohol misuse.
Giovanni
G
Martinotti
D000437:Alcoholism / Q000188:drug therapy; D000927:Anticonvulsants / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001008:Anxiety Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy*; D001569:Benzodiazepines / Q000009:adverse effects; D015220:Calcium Channels / Q000187:drug effects / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D000069583:Pregabalin; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy*; D005680:gamma-Aminobutyric Acid / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000031:analogs & derivatives* / Q000627:therapeutic use
D000927:Anticonvulsants; D015220:Calcium Channels; D001569:Benzodiazepines; D000069583:Pregabalin; D005680:gamma-Aminobutyric Acid