Can I take Pregabalin and Sertraline together?

Why this happens

Both medicines have a 'depressant' effect on the central nervous system. While they work in different ways, their sedative effects add together (an additive effect), making the overall impact on your coordination and alertness stronger than if you took either medicine alone.

What you should do

You can take these medicines together if your doctor has prescribed them, but you should be cautious. Monitor how you feel, especially when starting the combination or changing the dose. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this combination affects you. Limit or avoid alcohol, as it will make these side effects much worse. If you feel extremely sleepy or unsteady on your feet, contact your doctor.

Important precautions

Mental health disorders

You may experience an increase in suicidal thoughts or the urge to self-harm when first starting sertraline or changing the dose. This is more common in young adults under 25. Contact your doctor or go to hospital immediately if you notice any changes in your mood or behaviour.

Pregabalin can cause suicidal thoughts or an urge to self-harm. You must seek medical help immediately if your mood changes or you have thoughts of hurting yourself.

Severe respiratory depression

Pregabalin can cause serious breathing problems, especially if you already have lung disease or if you take it with other sedating medicines like opioids. Seek emergency help if you experience slow, shallow, or difficult breathing.

Pregnancy

Pregabalin use during the first three months of pregnancy may increase the risk of birth defects. Effective contraception must be used during treatment.

Drug dependence and withdrawal

Pregabalin carries a risk of dependence and addiction. Do not stop taking it suddenly, as this can cause severe withdrawal symptoms such as seizures or anxiety.

Bleeding disorders

Sertraline can increase your risk of bleeding, particularly from the stomach. Use with caution if you take blood-thinning medicines (like warfarin) or anti-inflammatory painkillers (like ibuprofen or aspirin), as this significantly increases the risk of serious bleeding.

Serotonin Syndrome

Sertraline can cause a life-threatening condition called serotonin syndrome, especially if taken with other medicines that affect serotonin (such as triptans, tramadol, or St John's Wort). Seek urgent medical help if you experience agitation, hallucinations, fast heartbeat, or severe muscle stiffness.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking these medicines. Both pregabalin and sertraline can cause drowsiness and dizziness; alcohol significantly increases these effects, which can lead to impaired coordination, severe sleepiness, and an increased risk of falls or accidents. Combining alcohol with paracetamol (often found in over-the-counter painkillers taken alongside these medicines) also increases the risk of liver damage.

Grapefruit juice

You should avoid drinking large amounts of grapefruit juice while taking sertraline. Grapefruit can increase the level of sertraline in your blood, which may increase the risk of side effects.

Caffeine (Coffee, Tea, Energy Drinks)

Sertraline can sometimes cause feelings of nervousness, tremors, or a racing heart. Caffeine is a stimulant that can worsen these side effects. If you feel anxious or jittery, it is advisable to reduce your caffeine intake.

Using other medicines

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.