Pregabalin - Epilepsy

From 1st April 2019 both pregabalin and gabapentin will be classified as a schedule 3 Controlled Drug. As such, the arrangements through which patients obtain these medicines will change.
The Surrey Medicines Commissioners Group have developed a patient template letter for local adaption - see below.

In addition, NHSE have produced a patient hand-out that is also available below

The PCN supported the principles of switching from brand to generic medications (not recommended in the elderly) as per national guidelines in September 2013 and the proposed place in therapy of the anti-epileptic drugs which is based on NICE guidance was also discussed at that time. Transfer of care documents will be considered at a future PCN.

Please note the MHRA categorisations for each drug in the attached guidance (updated January 2014) and in the link below

Prescribers are reminded to undertake a proportionate risk benefit assessment prior to prescribing Pregabalin or Gabapentin for patients with a known or suspected propensity to misuse.