Pregabalin-induced focal myositis: A report of two cases and review of literature

Abstract

Background: Drug-induced myopathy should be on the differential diagnosis in patients with non-traumatic muscle pain. It is important to consider the diagnosis as symptoms typically abate with removal of the offending agent. Case: Two elderly females presented separately with complaint of lower extremity pain and swelling. There was no elevation in inflammatory markers or muscle enzymes in either case. MRI revealed inflammatory changes on T2-weighted sequences. Both patients experienced rapid improvement of symptoms with discontinuation of pregabalin. Discussion: Medication-induced myositis should be considered in patients presenting with muscle complaints. Due to the overall high prevalence of pregabalin in the management of chronic pain, it is important to consider its role in the pathogenesis of focal myositis.