The study showed that this drug, commonly prescribed for chronic neuropathic pain, anxiety, and epilepsy, may increase the risk of certain conditions, especially among the elderly, according to ‘Medscape.’ ‘Pregabalin’ works by alleviating pain through inhibiting pain signals in the brain and spinal cord. However, researchers found that its use is associated with a 48% increased risk of heart failure in older adults, and this percentage rises to 85% for those with a history of heart disease. The study, published in a British journal, was based on the analysis of data from more than 246,000 patients aged between 65 and 89, who suffer from non-cancer-related conditions and have no prior history of heart failure. During four years of follow-up, 1,470 patients were hospitalized due to heart failure. The results indicated that the use of ‘Pregabalin’ is associated with about six additional cases of heart failure annually per 1,000 persons compared to non-users. Researchers explained that patients taking the drug are about 1.5 times more likely to develop heart failure, a serious condition where the heart is unable to pump blood efficiently, leading to symptoms such as shortness of breath, limb swelling, and persistent cough. This condition becomes more common among the elderly, especially heart attack survivors, and there is no curative treatment as it worsens over time. Researchers urged doctors to exercise caution when prescribing ‘Pregabalin’ to older adults, especially those with heart conditions, given the steady increase in the drug’s use for alleviating chronic pain in this age group. They called for further research to confirm these findings and ensure patient safety.
