Pregabalin Toxicity in Kidney Failure: A Medication Error With Neurological Consequences
We present a case of pregabalin toxicity in a 50-year-old dialysis-dependent female, who presented with a one-day history of progressive weakness, lethargy, and gait disturbance. They were successfully treated with haemodialysis. The case is notable for the atypical toxidrome seen in kidney failure, which occurred after a community pharmacy error led to a single twelvefold-increased dose. It also demonstrates the role of the emergency department pharmacist, who was crucial in identifying the medication error. The report emphasises the importance of careful medication reconciliation, especially in patients with kidney failure. It also highlights the importance of considering gabapentinoid toxicity in any patient who presents with new, unexplained neurological symptoms.
Authors
- Shea Roffey
- Adam Selway
- Maddison Taylor
- Peter Del Mar
- Anthony F Brown
Institutions
- The University of Queensland (AU)
- Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital (AU)
- Princess Alexandra Hospital (AU)
- Princess Alexandra Hospital (GB)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Cureus
- Published
- 2026-01-02
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.100611
- Citations
- 1
- Primary Topic
- Poisoning and overdose treatments
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 38.36