Pregabalin misuse and abuse in the region of Ouargla, Algeria

Abstract

Introduction: Pregabalin (PGB) recreative use leads to dependence and acute poisoning with mortality risk. It represents a growing trend in worldwide, especially in developing countries. In Algeria, there is a lack of data in on PGB misuse and abuse. Thus, the present study aimed to determine its local epidemiological characteristics. Materials and method: The present observational retrospective study was conducted in the region of Ouargla. Descriptive statistical analysis and data visualization were performed using R software. Results and discussion: During the seven last years (2017-2023), 152 cases of PGB misuse and poisoning were recorded, representing 10.8% of acute poisoning cases. A significant increase in the incidence of PGB poisoning cases has been observed, ranging from 0.8% ​​in 2017, to 15.5% and 21.5% in 2022 and 2023 respectively. Patients mean age was 24±8-year-olds, and 90.8% were male. Urine analysis remained positive for only PGB in 35.5% of cases, and PGB combined with other psychoactive substances (64.5%) including cannabis (50.7%), benzodiazepines (23.7%), methylenedioxy methamphetamines (15.1%), amphetamines (12.5%), tramadol (4.6%), cocaine (3.9%), opioids (2.6%), tricyclic antidepressants (2%), barbiturates (2%), buprenorphine (1.3%), and alcohol (1.3%). Recorded patients presented various neurological signs including: disorders of consciousness (46.7%), drowsiness (30.9%), psychomotor agitation (11.2%), coma (3.9%), miosis (3.9%), anxiety (3.9%), convulsions (3.3%), and obnubilation (2.6%). The evolution was favourable in 96.7% of the cases. The lethality rate was calculated as 3.3%. Conclusion: PGB misuse and abuse’s incidence has increased in the last two years in the region of Ouargla, and is becoming a public health issue. Awareness campaigns are highly recommended.