Pregabalin Sale Now Prescription-Only

As of November 12, Pregabalin will face significantly stricter regulatory controls, prohibiting its over-the-counter sale. Chemists will dispense the drug solely upon presentation of a valid prescription from a registered medical practitioner. This measure is a direct result of sustained lobbying by the Punjab government, which for nearly three years advocated for tighter regulation due to the drug's addictive potential and growing misuse, particularly among young people.

The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare officially notified Pregabalin's inclusion under Schedule H1 of the Drugs Rules, 1945, on May 13, 2026. This revised classification mandates retailers to meticulously maintain separate records of prescriptions and sales, allowing for better tracking. The move was heavily influenced by reports from various states detailing Pregabalin's misuse and abuse, alongside seizures of illegally supplied stocks.

Punjab's efforts began formally in October 2023, with subsequent recommendations in September 2024 to regulate seven different drugs. The state Health Minister further emphasized Pregabalin's risks in April 2025. While Pregabalin is commonly prescribed for neuropathic pain, its unauthorized use for sedative and dissociative effects has raised alarms. This heightened scrutiny follows the recent killing of an anti-drug activist in Mansa, Punjab, allegedly linked to the sale of addictive medicines.