SAHPRA, in association with various manufacturers, recently released a notification of the risk of respiratory depression and shortness of breath associated with pregabalin and gabapentin. In recent years there has been an increase globally in reports of dyspnoea and respiratory depression associated with the gabapentinoids.

The risk appears to be potentiated when used in combination with opioids, particularly in patients of older age, poor renal function and other respiratory conditions. The full Healthcare Professional advisory letter is available on the SAHPRA website.