Kemirica

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Kemirica

Property Description
Active ingredient Pregabalin
Form Capsules, Oral Solution, Extended-release Tablets
Pharmacological class Anticonvulsant, Gabapentinoid
General purpose Modulates overactive nerve signaling
Origin Synthetic compound

Kemirica is a trade name for the prescription-only medication whose active ingredient is Pregabalin, classified as a Gabapentinoid and an Anticonvulsant. Its primary function is to modify the activity of nerves within the central nervous system to help stabilize abnormal electrical signaling and reduce nerve hypersensitivity.

What Type of Medicine is Kemirica (Pregabalin)?

Kemirica belongs to the pharmacological class of Gabapentinoids, which are structural analogs of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). The substance, Pregabalin, is a synthetic compound that operates by binding to the alpha2delta-1 subunit of voltage-gated calcium channels. This targeted binding differentiates its action from earlier anticonvulsant drugs. The drug contains only Pregabalin as the active ingredient, confirming its status as a single-entity product.

Composition and Available Pharmaceutical Forms

The active ingredient, Pregabalin, is supplied for the oral route of administration in several preparations, including immediate-release oral capsules, a liquid oral solution for patients with specific swallowing difficulties, and specialized extended-release tablets. The availability of an extended-release form is a key differentiating feature that allows for varied systemic delivery profiles compared to standard immediate-release formulations.

What is the General Therapeutic Purpose?

The general therapeutic purpose of Kemirica is to modulate overactive nerve signaling, thereby stabilizing erratic communication pathways. This action helps address conditions characterized by nerve pain or excessive neural activity. By regulating the excessive release of excitatory neurotransmitters, Pregabalin aids in suppressing rapid, uncontrolled electrical bursts and helps reduce hypersensitive pain signals transmitted by affected nerves. The overall benefit is focused on re-establishing a more normal, balanced state of communication within the central nervous system.

What side effects are possible with Kemirica?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile for Kemirica, as documented by regulatory authorities, is organized by the frequency and type of documented adverse reactions. This classification provides a structured view of the potential risks associated with the medicine.

Adverse Reactions by Frequency and Body System

Adverse reactions are formally categorized into frequency groups, such as Very Common (occurring in more than 1 in 10 patients) and Common (occurring in 1 in 10 to 1 in 100 patients). These reactions are also grouped by the affected System-Organ Class (SOC), including Nervous System Disorders, Psychiatric Disorders, Eye Disorders, and General disorders.

  • Very Common Reactions include dizziness and somnolence (sleepiness).
  • Common Reactions include weight gain, blurred vision, dry mouth, peripheral edema (swelling of the hands and feet), euphoric mood, confusion, difficulty with attention, and uncoordinated movement (ataxia).

Serious and Clinically Significant Safety Concerns

Regulatory documents identify specific serious and rare risks requiring caution:

  • Hypersensitivity and Angioedema: Serious allergic reactions, including angioedema (swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, or throat) which can be life-threatening, have been reported. Immediate discontinuation is required if these symptoms occur.
  • Suicidal Thoughts and Behavior: An increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior has been associated with medicines of this class, which is a key safety limitation noted in official labeling.
  • Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions (SCARs): Rare, life-threatening skin reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) have been documented.
  • Breathing Problems: Slow or shallow breathing (respiratory depression) may occur, especially when used with other Central Nervous System (CNS) depressants like opioids.

Population-Specific and Dose-Related Safety

  • Physical Dependence: Discontinuation, particularly abrupt cessation, may result in withdrawal symptoms, suggesting a potential for physical dependence. A gradual reduction is officially recommended.
  • Addiction Potential: Use at high doses over long periods carries a risk of developing addiction.
  • Pregnancy: The safety for use during pregnancy is not clearly established, with some studies suggesting potential harm, requiring consideration of the potential risks versus benefits.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

This information is based on the official prescribing details from regulatory authorities, documenting the specific signs of overdose for Kemirica (Pregabalin) and the required emergency actions.

Documented Manifestations and Severe Outcomes

Overdose presentations are primarily linked to effects on the central nervous system (CNS).

Symptom Category Officially Documented Manifestations
Common Symptoms Drowsiness, confusion, agitation, somnolence, and restlessness.
Severe Outcomes Reduced consciousness (including coma), seizures, and first-degree heart block.

Note on Risk: Fatal outcomes have been reported, particularly when Kemirica was taken in combination with other CNS depressants, highlighting an increased risk under such circumstances.

Official Emergency Actions

The most important instruction from regulatory labeling is the requirement to seek professional assistance immediately if an overdose is suspected.

  • Seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center right away.
  • Urgent medical help is required if the person shows signs of collapse, has a seizure, or is unable to be awakened.

There is no specific antidote for Pregabalin overdose documented in official labeling. Management focuses on general supportive care. The drug can be removed from the body using hemodialysis, a procedure that may be considered for severe cases, especially in patients with reduced kidney function.

Therapeutic Uses of Kemirica

Kemirica (Pregabalin) is generally used in areas where certain symptoms create noticeable physiological strain, and may assist patients during difficult episodes by easing distress. The medication is considered relevant in domains where additional symptomatic support is needed, including: neuropathic pain, adjunctive treatment for partial-onset seizures, fibromyalgia, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD).


Easing Chronic Pain and Excessive Neural Activity

Kemirica may be part of symptomatic management in clinical settings that involve acute or disruptive symptom patterns. It helps address symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive, such as the shooting, burning sensations related to physical discomfort, or the widespread discomfort and systemic imbalance of fibromyalgia. The medication assists with maintaining functional stability when symptoms related to heightened physiological activity or chronic worry become more noticeable.

“This provides support that helps ease the overall symptom load, contributing to improved comfort during periods of heightened symptoms.”

This use offers symptomatic relief that helps patients cope more steadily with symptom fluctuations, whether dealing with persistent tension from GAD or the symptoms related to physical discomfort.


Quick Fact: Relief for Chronic Neuropathic Discomfort


Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Kemirica (Pregabalin) eligibility is defined by regulatory agencies based on specific population categories and clinical conditions. Use is strictly prohibited for patients with a known hypersensitivity to Pregabalin or any of its excipients.

Population Eligibility Summary

Eligibility Status Patient Group or Condition
Contraindicated Known hypersensitivity to Pregabalin or any excipients.
Approved Use Adults (18 years and older) for all labeled indications. Pediatric patients (1 month and older) only for adjunctive partial-onset seizure treatment.
Restricted Use Renal Impairment: Requires mandatory dose reduction proportional to the patient's Creatinine Clearance. Older Adults (65+): Use is permitted, but dose adjustment is often required due to age-related renal function decline.
Not Recommended Pregnancy: Use is restricted unless the benefit clearly outweighs the potential risk; women of child-bearing potential must use effective contraception. Lactation: Breastfeeding is not recommended.

Use is not established for most indications in patients under 18 years of age. Additionally, regulatory documents advise using Kemirica with caution in patients with compromised respiratory function, a history of congestive heart failure, and those with a history of substance abuse, as these populations may be at higher risk for complications.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

The official regulatory profile for Kemirica (Pregabalin) is primarily defined by its low potential for pharmacokinetic drug-drug interactions and its substantial risk for pharmacodynamic potentiation.

Pharmacodynamic Interaction Risks

Co-administration with substances that also act as Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressants carries a documented risk of additive effects. These effects include increased somnolence, dizziness, and a heightened risk of respiratory depression, coma, and death reported in postmarketing data. This category includes Opioid Analgesics and Ethanol (Alcohol), which are documented to potentiate effects. The risk of severe respiratory outcomes is noted to be higher in elderly patients and those with compromised respiratory function when taking concomitant CNS depressants.

Pharmacokinetic Profile and Other Constraints

Regulatory data confirms that Pregabalin is predominantly eliminated via renal excretion and does not inhibit or induce major Cytochrome P450 enzymes. This absence of metabolic interaction means no clinically significant change in plasma concentration is generally observed with co-administered medicines like oral contraceptives or various other anticonvulsants. An indirect pharmacodynamic constraint exists for diabetic patients: if weight gain is experienced, they may require an adjustment to their hypoglycaemic medicinal products. Furthermore, the extended-release tablet formulation must be taken after the evening meal to adhere to its mandated systemic delivery profile.

Mechanism of Action

Kemirica functions as a nitrogen-containing bisphosphonate that selectively targets and accumulates within bone tissue. It exerts its pharmacodynamic action by inhibiting the enzyme farnesyl pyrophosphate synthase (FPPS), a key component of the mevalonate pathway. By blocking FPPS, Kemirica prevents the synthesis of essential isoprenoid lipid intermediates, specifically farnesyl pyrophosphate (FPP) and geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate (GGPP).

The reduced availability of FPP and GGPP prevents the post-translational modification known as prenylation—the addition of these lipid groups—to small regulatory GTPases (e.g., Rho, Rac). Prenylation is necessary for these GTPases to anchor properly to the cell membrane and become functionally active. Loss of prenylation results in their cytosolic localization and subsequent functional disruption.

This dysfunction of unprenylated GTPases primarily impacts osteoclasts, the cells responsible for bone resorption. The inhibited Rho-GTPase pathway impairs the cytoskeletal organization and adhesion structures of the osteoclast. This loss of cellular structure physically prevents the cell from establishing the necessary sealing zone, thereby impeding its ability to attach to and dissolve the underlying mineral matrix.

Dosage and Administration Information

Kemirica, whose active ingredient is pregabalin, is an oral medication used for the management of various conditions, including neuropathic pain (such as that associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy or postherpetic neuralgia), fibromyalgia, and as an adjunctive therapy for partial-onset seizures in adults.


General Administration

Kemirica is typically taken two or three times a day, with or without food. The capsules should be swallowed whole. Dosing is individualized and depends on the specific condition being treated, the patient’s response, and their kidney function. Never alter the prescribed dose or regimen without consulting a healthcare provider.

Dosage and Kidney Function

Dosage adjustments are necessary for patients with impaired kidney function, as pregabalin is primarily eliminated by renal excretion. Healthcare providers will calculate the appropriate dose based on the patient's creatinine clearance (CLcr). A reduced dosage frequency or total daily dose may be required for lower CLcr values.

Creatinine Clearance (CLcr) Typical Daily Dose Range Dosing Regimen
≥ 60 mL/min 150 mg to 600 mg BID or TID
30 to 60 mL/min 75 mg to 300 mg BID or TID
15 to 30 mL/min 25 mg to 150 mg QD or BID
< 15 mL/min 25 mg to 75 mg QD

Note: This table provides general guidance. The exact dosage and regimen should be strictly followed as prescribed by a qualified healthcare professional.

Discontinuation of Treatment

Treatment with Kemirica should not be stopped abruptly. When discontinuing the medication, it is recommended to do so gradually over a minimum of one week to minimize the potential for withdrawal reactions, which may include symptoms such as insomnia, headache, nausea, anxiety, or diarrhea.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Kemirica

This overview summarizes the formal research studies that have been conducted to evaluate the use of Kemirica (Pregabalin), focusing on the types of evidence that exist, what outcomes researchers monitored, and where the current data has limitations, as reported by authoritative scientific sources. The findings describe group patterns, not personal outcomes.


Evidence for Use in Chronic Pain Conditions

Kemirica was studied for conditions where research examined outcomes related to physical discomfort, such as neuropathic pain and fibromyalgia. For peripheral neuropathic pain—the physical discomfort that can result from conditions like diabetic neuropathy or shingles—research was observed in primarily short-term, randomized, placebo-controlled trials (RCTs). These studies monitored adult populations and tracked patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort and measures of sleep disturbance related to the discomfort.

Findings describe patterns observed in the studies related to changes in the severity of physical discomfort. However, the available research is generally limited to short-term observation; follow-up durations were limited, and long-term effects are not fully established.

Research on Central Neuropathic Pain

In addition to peripheral conditions, Kemirica was studied for central neuropathic pain, which may occur after a stroke or spinal cord injury. Research in this population suggests patterns were observed during the study periods, but the overall evidence quality varies across studies. Data for this specific group remain limited compared to the evidence for peripheral pain.


Evidence for Use in Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Kemirica was evaluated in adults with Generalized Anxiety Disorder, a condition characterized by fluctuating or episodic manifestations of worry and tension. The research primarily involved short-term randomized controlled trials that tracked how symptoms evolved in the observed populations, using standardized anxiety rating scales. Research highlights changes measured during the study period, typically lasting four to eight weeks.

One study monitored the length of time before symptoms returned or worsened. A key limitation is that the primary controlled data are largely limited to short-term exposure, and long-term effects are not fully established beyond the initial observation window. Furthermore, some studies reported that a large change was also observed in the control group, a finding often referred to as a notable placebo effect.


Evidence for Use as Adjunctive Treatment for Partial-Onset Seizures

For the study of seizures, Kemirica was observed in research examining temporary physiological imbalance in adults with partial epilepsy. Research examined outcomes by monitoring changes in seizure frequency as an add-on treatment to existing medications. The evidence is derived primarily using short-term, randomized, placebo-controlled trials.

Data show patterns related to changes in seizure frequency during the short-term controlled studies. The core controlled evidence is specifically for adjunctive use alongside other medications, and its application as a single therapy was not the focus of the primary randomized trials.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Kemirica (FAQ)


Q: What is the main difference between Kemirica and other similar prescription drugs?

Kemirica's active ingredient, pregabalin, is described in official documents as working by binding to the alpha2delta-1 subunit of voltage-gated calcium channels. This binding mechanism is a key factor described in the official profile that defines its action.


Q: Is Kemirica considered a new type of drug?

The active ingredient, pregabalin, is formally classified as a Gabapentinoid and an Anticonvulsant. It has been available since its initial approval by the U.S. FDA in 2004.


Q: How quickly should I expect Kemirica to start working?

Research studies examining the medicine's effects typically involve observation periods of four to eight weeks. Based on this evidence, official patient information often suggests that changes in the condition being treated may become noticeable after a few weeks.


Q: Can Kemirica affect my ability to drive or operate machinery?

Regulatory guidance advises against driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities until an individual determines how the medicine affects their alertness. This caution is due to common side effects like dizziness and sleepiness (somnolence) listed in the official product information.


Q: Are there any specific foods or drinks I should avoid while taking Kemirica?

For the immediate-release capsules and oral solution, the medicine can be taken with or without food. However, for the extended-release tablet formulation, the official regulatory information describes that it is to be taken after the evening meal.


Q: What is the maximum duration of use described in the official information for Kemirica?

Regulatory documents define a maximum recommended daily dose for each condition, but they do not typically specify a universal 'maximum duration' for treatment. The continuation of treatment is determined by a qualified healthcare professional.


Q: Can Kemirica cause changes in weight?

Yes, weight gain is listed as a common adverse reaction in the official regulatory documents for the medicine.


Q: Does Kemirica have a 'boxed warning' in the US official labeling?

The U.S. FDA has issued warnings concerning the risk of serious or fatal respiratory depression, particularly when the medicine is used in combination with other Central Nervous System (CNS) depressants. This risk is documented in official safety information.


Q: Is there a generic version of Kemirica available?

Yes, regulatory bodies like the FDA have approved multiple generic versions of the active ingredient, pregabalin, in various forms. The availability and form of the generic may vary depending on local regulations and the specific formulation needed.


Q: Is Kemirica processed through the kidneys or the liver?

According to the official clinical pharmacology information, the active ingredient is primarily eliminated from the body via renal excretion, meaning it leaves the body through the kidneys as the unchanged drug. Dosage adjustments are necessary for patients with impaired kidney function, as described in the prescribing information.


Q: What is the difference between Kemirica and its metabolites?

The active ingredient, pregabalin, undergoes very little change or breakdown (metabolism) in the human body. Regulatory data indicates that it is excreted largely unchanged, and the major breakdown product (metabolite) accounts for a very small portion of the total dose.


Q: Has Kemirica been approved in countries outside of the US?

Yes, the active ingredient, pregabalin, is approved by multiple major regulatory bodies worldwide, including the European Medicines Agency (EMA), the MHRA in the UK, and Health Canada, for various conditions.


Q: Are there any ongoing clinical trials involving Kemirica?

Registries maintained by government agencies, such as the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH), list studies related to the active ingredient, pregabalin, that are currently active or recruiting patients for various research purposes.


Q: Can I take Kemirica if I have a history of allergic reactions to medications?

Official guidance indicates the medicine is contraindicated for patients with a known hypersensitivity or allergy to the active ingredient, pregabalin, or any components in the formulation. Severe allergic reactions, including life-threatening swelling, have been reported in official warnings.


Q: Is Kemirica a controlled substance?

Yes. In the United States, the active ingredient is classified as a Schedule V controlled substance by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). This designation reflects its lowest relative potential for abuse, requiring specific regulatory oversight for prescribing and dispensing.


Q: Does Kemirica interact with birth control pills?

Regulatory data indicates that the active ingredient does not cause clinically significant changes in the plasma concentration of oral contraceptives. Based on official data, it is not expected to interfere with the effectiveness of oral contraceptives.


Q: Can Kemirica affect blood pressure or heart rate?

Regulatory documents list side effects such as edema (swelling of the hands and feet) and advise caution for patients with a history of congestive heart failure. Although rare, serious heart rhythm changes have been noted in post-marketing reports.


Q: Is it safe to stop taking Kemirica suddenly?

Official information advises that treatment should not be stopped abruptly due to the potential for withdrawal symptoms such as insomnia, headache, or anxiety. It is recommended that the medicine be tapered off gradually over a minimum of one week.


Q: Does Kemirica require a special pharmacy to dispense?

Because the active ingredient is classified as a controlled substance, pharmacies must follow tighter legal controls over its dispensing and inventory, which are set by the DEA and other regulatory bodies. This oversight is applied to controlled substances generally.


Q: Is there any research evidence on how Kemirica performs in diverse populations?

Regulatory clinical reviews typically include analysis of how the medicine performs across various patient subgroups. These subgroups often include analyses based on age (specifically older adults), sex, and renal function, where the drug's safety or performance profile may be assessed for variation.


Q: Does taking Kemirica impact my immune system?

Severe immune system-related events have been reported, specifically hypersensitivity reactions and angioedema (life-threatening swelling of the face, mouth, or throat). These are serious risks documented in official safety information.


Q: How long after stopping Kemirica does it typically stay in the body?

The half-life of the active ingredient, pregabalin, is approximately 6.3 hours. Based on the reported half-life, the substance is generally considered eliminated from the body within one to two days after the last dose.


Q: Does Kemirica interact with common over-the-counter pain relievers?

Official data indicates a low risk for interaction through the major liver enzyme system (CYP450). However, caution is advised regarding over-the-counter products that contain Central Nervous System (CNS) depressants, as these could potentially intensify effects like sleepiness.


Q: Can Kemirica be taken with multivitamins or herbal supplements?

The active ingredient is not known to significantly interfere with the liver enzymes responsible for metabolizing many other substances. Official guidance suggests individuals should inform a healthcare professional about all concomitant products, including vitamins and herbal supplements.


Q: Why do people say Kemirica is difficult to get prescribed?

The active ingredient is classified as a controlled substance due to its potential for physical dependence and abuse. This designation subjects the medicine to tighter legal controls and prescribing guidelines, which can make the process more complex than for non-controlled medications.


Q: Can Kemirica interact with cold and flu medications?

The risk of additive effects is documented when Kemirica is taken with other Central Nervous System (CNS) depressants, a category that includes certain ingredients found in cold and flu medications, such as some antihistamines. Caution is officially advised with co-administration.


Q: Is it normal to feel a certain way after first starting Kemirica?

Official documents list certain effects, such as dizziness and somnolence (sleepiness), as Very Common Reactions, meaning they are expected to occur in more than 1 in 10 patients. These effects are often most noticeable when first starting treatment or after a dosage change.

How should Kemirica be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Kemirica

The storage and disposal instructions for Kemirica are based strictly on official regulatory labeling to ensure product quality and safety.

Storage Requirement Official Classification
Temperature Store at Controlled Room Temperature (20 C to 25 C).
Prohibited Environment Do not freeze and do not store above the maximum specified temperature.
Handling & Packaging Keep the medicine in its original container, which must be kept tightly closed and protected from moisture and light.

If Kemirica is prepared or reconstituted, the medicine has a limited stability period (e.g., use within X days) and must be discarded after that time. All official labeling requires that the medicine be kept out of the sight and reach of children.

For disposal, do not flush Kemirica down the toilet or place it in household trash unless otherwise instructed by a drug take-back program. Unused or expired medication should be taken to an authorized collection site.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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