Pregabalin (Lyrica) and risk of abuse and dependence: new scheduling requirements from 1 April 2019 (UK)
As of 1 April 2019 in the UK, pregabalin is controlled under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 as a Class C substance and scheduled under the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001 as Schedule 3. Patients should be evaluated carefully for a history of drug abuse before prescribing pregabalin and patients should be observed for development of signs of abuse and dependence.
- TRADE NAME: Lyrica (Pfizer)
- INDICATIONS: Neuropathy, post-herpetic neuralgia, partial epilepsy, fibromyalgia
- CLASS: Anticonvulsant (see also antiepileptic (anti-seizure)), Antiepileptic (anti-seizure), GABA analog, Gabapentinoid
- HALF-LIFE: 6 hours
- CLINICALLY IMPORTANT, POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS INTERACTIONS WITH:
Lacosamide, Pioglitazone - PREGNANCY: Pregabalin may slightly increase the risk of major congenital malformations if used in pregnancy. Patients should continue to use effective contraception during treatment and avoid use in pregnancy unless clearly necessary.
- See adverse reactions attributed to class:
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Click on the DRUG REVIEW ARTICLE tab (above) to see a review of pregabalin in the Taylor & Francis journal Expert Opinion on Drug Safety.
(Note that non-subscribers to the journal will only be able to see an abstract of the article.)
Page last updated 04/14/2026
