DEA Registration for Pregabalin Prescribing
Yes, you need a DEA registration to prescribe pregabalin because it is classified as a Schedule V controlled substance in the United States. 1
Controlled Substance Classification
Pregabalin has been designated as a Schedule V controlled substance by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) due to its potential for abuse and dependence. 2 This is the lowest schedule of controlled substances, indicating the lowest potential for abuse among controlled medications, but it still requires DEA registration to prescribe legally. 2
Why Pregabalin is Controlled
The controlled substance designation stems from documented abuse potential:
Abuse patterns have been documented in patients with prior drug-seeking behavior, with cases reporting consumption of up to 88,500 mg over 28 days (far exceeding therapeutic dosing). 3
High-dose use above recommended ranges occurs in approximately 9.6% of users (≥600 mg/day for 6 months), with male gender and concurrent prescription of antipsychotics and benzodiazepines associated with increased risk of supra-therapeutic dosing. 4
Euphoric effects have been reported at doses exceeding therapeutic ranges, particularly in individuals with substance use history. 3
Practical Prescribing Requirements
To legally prescribe pregabalin, you must:
- Hold an active DEA registration in the state where you practice
- Include your DEA number on all pregabalin prescriptions
- Follow state-specific controlled substance prescribing regulations, which may include prescription monitoring program (PMP) checks
Common pitfall: Some clinicians mistakenly believe Schedule V substances don't require DEA registration because they have lower abuse potential than Schedule II-IV drugs—this is incorrect. All controlled substances from Schedule II through V require valid DEA registration for prescribing. 2