Pregabalin‐induced Parkinsonism 72 Hours after Iodinated Contrast Administration

AbstractBackgroundPregabalin is a drug which requires dose adjustment when renal clearance decreases below 60 mL/min.AimWe describe a case in which a 58‐year‐old woman, taking pregabalin for 3 years, developed symptoms of parkinsonism due to worsening of her kidney failure.Clinical detailsA 58‐year‐old woman developed symptoms of parkinsonism characterised by bradypsychia and drowsiness, inability to ambulate, stiffness in the extremities and loss of facial expression. Four days earlier the patient had undergone an abdominal computed axial tomography scan with iodinated contrast medium and her renal function had failed. Neurological exploration and image testing were performed with inconclusive results. Her treatment was revised and pregabalin was discontinued.OutcomesParkinsonian symptoms disappeared 10 days after the discontinuation of pregabalin.ConclusionsThis is the first reported case of pregabalin‐induced parkinsonism associated with acute renal failure or exacerbation of chronic renal failure. The monitoring of renal function in patients taking pregabalin is essential to prevent future similar adverse events.