Pregabalin Misuse and Abuse in Jordan: a Qualitative Study of User Experiences

Pregabalin is currently approved for the treatment of epilepsy, generalized anxiety disorder, neuropathic pain, and fibromyalgia. A qualitative study was undertaken in Jordan, where concerns have been raised about its unprescribed availability in community pharmacies and thereby its abuse. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with all patients with a history of pregabalin use in two Jordanian addiction treatment centers. All were male patients aged 21-30 years (n = 11). The majority was poly-drug abusers and had a previous history of substance abuse (tramadol, Captagon, synthetic cannabinoids, and marijuana). Six key themes emerged from a content textual analysis which centered on pregabalin and other drugs; the pregabalin effect; poly-pharming and pregabalin intoxication; trajectories, patterns, and routes of administration; dependence and withdrawal; and sourcing of pregabalin. The study underscores the need for continued pharmacovigilance to manage and address suspected abuse, along with community pharmacist and patient education regarding abuse liability and related harms.