1. Changes in mood, depression and suicidal ideation after commencing pregabalin for neuropathic pain
- Author
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Tony David, Hall, Simon, Shah, Bradley, Ng, Heide Marie, Feberwee, Leigh, Dotchin, Margaret, Vandermost, and Michelle A, King
- Subjects
Analgesics ,Depression ,Mood Disorders ,Risk Factors ,Surveys and Questionnaires ,Pregabalin ,Humans ,Neuralgia ,Suicidal Ideation - Abstract
Pregabalin is a treatment option for patients with persistent neuropathic pain. Its use has been associated with changes in mood and the development of depression and/or suicidal ideation.Case presentations were reviewed of five patients reporting changes in mood, depression and suicidal ideation from the first 50 (approximately) patients commenced on pregabalin at the clinic.Although these patients had a history of depression, their mood had been stable before commencing pregabalin. Soon after commencement they reported changes in mood, and development of depression and/or suicidal ideation, which improved with dose reduction or cessation of pregabalin. Ultimately, all five patients ceased pregabalin treatment. Suicidal ideation is a recognised adverse effect of pregabalin. Patients should be warned of and monitored for deterioration in mood.
- Published
- 2014