Assessment of the effects of pregabalin on bone mineral density

Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of pregabalin on bone mineral density. Material and Methods: 40 patients diagnosed with neuropathic pain or fibromyalgia syndrome who were using pregabalin for at least 6 months and age and sex matched 40 healthy individuals were recruited for this cross-sectional study. Bone mineral density(BMD) of both groups were measured by dual energy x ray absorbsiometry(DXA), bone biochemical markers, serum calcium and vitamin D levels were investigated. Association between pregabalin use and bone biochemical markers, serum calcium, vitamin D levels was evaluated. Results: The mean age of 40 patients (27 females, 13 males) was 40.6±7.1 years and the mean age of 40 healthy individuals (27 females, 13 males) was 40.4±7.3 years. There were no significant differences in spine and hip BMD between two groups. Also, there was no association between pregabalin use and biochemical markers, serum calcium, vitamin D levels. Femur neck BMD was found lower in group of patients using pregabalin for 6-11 months compared to the group of patients using pregabalin for 12-23 months, but no statistically significant difference were found. Conclusions: There was no negative effect of pregabalin on bone mineral density in younger than 50 years of age. However future longitudinal studies are needed in order to evaluate the long-term effects of pregabalin on bone health for various age groups. Keywords: Pregabalin, bone mineral density, osteoporosis