Quick answer: In the United Kingdom, Pregabalin is supplied in two primary formulations: hard capsules in eight licensed strengths (25mg, 50mg, 75mg, 100mg, 150mg, 200mg, 225mg, and 300mg) and a 20mg/ml oral liquid solution. While originally marketed under the brand name Lyrica, it is now widely prescribed across the NHS as generic Pregabalin, as well as under branded generic names including Alzain, Axalid, and Lecaent.
Master UK capsule strengths table
Each capsule strength is designed to allow precise clinical titration and tailored dosing:
| Strength | Common Clinical Role | Typical Appearance (Lyrica standard) |
|---|---|---|
| 25mg | Initial starting dose in older adults; fine dose titration; severe renal impairment dosing | White opaque body and cap; marked "PFIZER" / "PGN 25" |
| 50mg | Titration step; starting dose in moderate kidney disease; three-times-daily dosing (150mg/day) | White opaque body and cap; marked "PFIZER" / "PGN 50" |
| 75mg | Standard starting dose for adults with normal kidney function (75mg twice daily = 150mg/day) | White opaque body with orange cap; marked "PGN 75" |
| 100mg | Intermediate titration step; three-times-daily dosing (300mg/day) | Orange opaque body and cap; marked "PGN 100" |
| 150mg | Standard maintenance dose for neuropathic pain and anxiety (150mg twice daily = 300mg/day) | White opaque body with light orange cap; marked "PGN 150" |
| 200mg | Intermediate dose for patients requiring stepped increases above 300mg | Light orange opaque body and cap; marked "PGN 200" |
| 225mg | Specialist titration dose (225mg twice daily = 450mg/day) | White opaque body with orange cap; marked "PGN 225" |
| 300mg | Maximum single capsule strength; used for 600mg maximum daily dose (300mg twice daily) | White opaque body with red/orange cap; marked "PGN 300" |
Note: Generic capsule colour schemes and external imprint codes vary widely between manufacturers (e.g. Accord, Teva, Sandoz, Milpharm, Zentiva). Always check the milligram strength printed clearly on the pharmacy dispensing label and blister foil.
Pregabalin oral liquid solution (20mg/ml)
For patients unable to swallow solid capsules, the NHS provides a licensed oral liquid formulation:
- Strength: 20 milligrams of Pregabalin per millilitre of liquid (20mg/ml).
- Who it is for: Patients with dysphagia (swallowing difficulties following stroke or head/neck surgery), patients with enteral feeding tubes (nasogastric or PEG tubes), paediatric neurology patients, and adults undergoing very slow, delicate micro-tapering.
- Accurate measurement: The bottle is supplied with an oral measuring syringe and bottle adapter. Never use a household spoon.
- Storage after opening: Liquid bottles typically expire 4 to 6 weeks after first opening; check the packaging instructions carefully.
Lyrica vs generic Pregabalin in the NHS
Lyrica was the original trade name developed by Pfizer. When the European and UK patents expired, generic manufacturers gained approval to produce identical formulations.
What you should know about generic prescribing:
- Bioequivalence: Under MHRA regulations, generic medicines must prove "bioequivalence"—meaning they deliver the identical active compound into the bloodstream at the identical rate and extent as the branded original.
- NHS cost savings: Generic prescribing saves the NHS tens of millions of pounds each year. GPs in the UK are instructed to prescribe generically ("Pregabalin") by default unless there is a specific clinical reason.
- Branded generics: Some NHS trusts purchase branded generics (such as Alzain, Axalid, or Lecaent) to ensure consistent local supply and pricing.
Inactive ingredients and lactose intolerance
While the active drug compound is identical, the inactive filler ingredients (excipients) can vary:
- Lactose monohydrate: Almost all brands of Pregabalin hard capsules contain lactose. While the small quantity (usually 5mg to 35mg per capsule) is well tolerated by most people with mild lactose intolerance, those with severe hereditary galactose intolerance, Lapp lactase deficiency, or glucose-galactose malabsorption should inform their doctor.
- Gelatine: Capsule shells are usually made from bovine or porcine gelatine. Patients requiring vegetarian, halal, or kosher medicines should consult their pharmacist; oral liquid solutions do not contain gelatine.
UK pharmacy collection and Schedule 3 rules
Because Pregabalin is a Class C Controlled Drug (Schedule 3) in the UK:
- 28-day prescription validity: The prescription must be dispensed within 28 days of the date written.
- Maximum supply: Prescriptions are routinely restricted to a 30-day quantity.
- ID requirement: The pharmacist or pharmacy technician may ask for proof of identity or a signature when you collect your medicine.
- Safe disposal: Never dispose of unwanted Pregabalin capsules in household rubbish or down the toilet. Return all unused blisters to a community pharmacy for safe destruction.