• Robert Lee Page, Mona Cantu, JoAnn Lindenfeld, Lawrence J Hergott, and Brian D Lowes.
• Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Physical Medicine, University of Colorado Denver, School of Pharmacy, Aurora, Colorado 80045, USA. Robert.page@uchsc.edu
• J Cardiovasc Med (Hagerstown). 2008 Sep 1;9(9):922-5.

AbstractPregabalin is an analog of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid that exhibits analgesic, anticonvulsant, and anxiolytic properties. Owing to its pharmacologic properties, the drug has been used worldwide in the management of diabetic peripheral neuropathy, postherpetic neuralgia, generalized anxiety disorder, and social anxiety disorder. Although central nervous system disturbances account for the majority of pregabalin's side effects, dose-dependent peripheral edema and weight gain have also been reported. Recently, three case reports have been published documenting a possible association between pregabalin administration and chronic heart failure decompensation. We present three additional cases of possible heart failure exacerbation in patients with clinically stable heart failure who received pregabalin for neuropathic pain. Additionally, we review the literature addressing the nature and possible etiology for this adverse effect.

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