Certified Hospice and Palliative Assistant (CHPNA) Practice Test

Which of the following statements is true about pregabalin compared to gabapentin?

1. Pregabalin has a lower bioavailability

2. Pregabalin can be given once daily

3. Pregabalin has better bioavailability and can be given twice daily

4. Pregabalin is ineffective for neuropathic pain

The correct answer is: Pregabalin has better bioavailability and can be given twice daily

The statement that pregabalin has better bioavailability and can be given twice daily is correct. Pregabalin has approximately 90% bioavailability when taken orally, which is significantly higher than gabapentin, whose bioavailability decreases as the dose increases and is approximately 27% at therapeutic doses. This higher bioavailability of pregabalin allows for more consistent levels in the bloodstream, making it more effective for managing conditions such as neuropathic pain. Additionally, pregabalin is often prescribed with a dosing schedule that allows for flexibility, generally requiring it to be taken two to three times a day rather than just twice daily for optimal therapeutic effect. This dosing frequency can help manage the medication's effects on pain relief while minimizing peak and trough variations in plasma levels, which is a significant factor in pain management. In contrast, other statements regarding lower bioavailability, dosing frequency, and ineffectiveness do not hold when compared to pregabalin's properties and clinical applications. Understanding the pharmacokinetics of these medications is crucial for providing effective symptom management in patients with neuropathic pain and other related conditions.