Can I take Pregabalin and Ropinirole together?

Why this happens

Both medicines act on the central nervous system (the brain) to slow down certain signals. When used together, their sedative effects add up, making the overall impact on your alertness much stronger.

What you should do

Be very careful when starting this combination or changing your dose. Do not drive, cycle, or operate machinery until you know how these medicines affect you together. Avoid alcohol, as it will make the drowsiness even worse. If you feel excessively sleepy or struggle to stay awake during the day, speak to your doctor.

Important precautions

Mental health disorders

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.

Impulse control disorders

Ropinirole can cause unusual urges, such as an uncontrollable urge to gamble, excessive eating or spending, or an abnormally high sex drive. Tell your doctor immediately if you or your family notice these behaviours.

Sudden onset of sleep

Ropinirole can cause you to fall asleep suddenly without any prior warning or feeling of tiredness. Do not drive or operate machinery if you experience daytime sleepiness or sudden sleep episodes.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking these medicines. Combining alcohol with pregabalin or ropinirole can significantly increase drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion. It may also increase the risk of fainting or falling.

High-fat meals

If you are taking the 'prolonged-release' or 'once-daily' version of ropinirole, taking it with a very high-fat meal can cause the medicine to be absorbed too quickly. This may increase the risk of side effects like nausea or dizziness. It is best to take your dose at the same time each day, ideally with a light snack or meal.

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.