Respiratory concerns of gabapentin and pregabalin: What does it mean to the pharmacovigilance systems in developing countries?

Abstract

Gabapentin and pregabalin, commonly known as gabapentinoids, have been widely used globally. This paper highlights the serious breathing problems due to using gabapentin and pregabalin which was warned by the United States Food and Drug Administration on December, 2019. In this article, we tried to recommend suggestions for controlling these adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Safety reports of gabapentin and pregabalin should be obtained from concerned manufacturers and reviewed for respiratory depression effects. There should be strict prescription monitoring and drug use evaluation studies. Concurrent use of gabapentin and pregabalin with other respiratory depressants should be strictly monitored. Educating patients can help in the early detection of ADRs due to gabapentin and pregabalin. Anecdotal reports on these medications should be encouraged.