Trends in pregabalin misuse and abuse: A 25-year bibliometric perspective

Originally classified among antiepileptic drugs, pregabalin has been prescribed for clinical conditions such as neuropathic pain, generalised anxiety disorder, and fibromyalgia. In recent years, accumulating evidence has highlighted its potential for misuse and abuse, particularly among individuals with a high prevalence of opioid dependence. This study aims to conduct a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of global research on pregabalin misuse and abuse, to identify key trends, influential contributors, and collaborative networks.

Bibliometric design was employed using data retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection database. The search was conducted in February 2025, and relevant publications were identified based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. A total of 449 eligible records were exported and compiled for analysis. The bibliometric analysis was carried out using the bibliometrix R package and its Web-based interface Biblioshiny, both operating within the RStudio environment.

The analysis revealed a notable increase in scientific output on pregabalin misuse and dependence, particularly after 2010. The United States emerged as the most prolific and central country within the global collaboration network, followed by the United Kingdom, Germany, and France. Leading authors and institutions were concentrated in specific academic clusters. Keywords such as "abuse," "addiction," and "opioids" have shown an increasing trend since 2016.

This study highlights the growing academic interest in the misuse and abuse potential of pregabalin, particularly over the past decade. The findings reveal a centralised research structure, with significant contributions from high-capacity countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany. Emerging participation from developing countries, including Türkiye, underscores a broadening global awareness of the issue. The results emphasise the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, policies, and the critical role of clinical laboratories in monitoring pregabalin-related risks.