Pregabalin does not affect fracture healing adversely

Objectives: This study aims to assess the radiographic, histological, and biomechanical effects of pregabalin on fracture healing in a rat model of femur fracture. Materials and methods: A total of 32 female Wistar- Albino rats (mean age 12±1 weeks; mean body weight 236±12 grams) were randomized into four groups with eight rats in each group. Groups A and B were the control groups whereas C and D were the treatment groups. Drugs were delivered by oral gavage. Radiographic, histological and biomechanical evaluations were performed after sacrificing the rats in groups A and C on 15th postoperative day and the rats in groups B and D on 30th postoperative day. Results: Although radiographic results were better in groups A and B than groups C and D at the end of 15th day, no significant difference was detected at the end of 30th day. No statistically significant differences were observed between the groups on 15th a nd 3 0th days in terms of histological or biomechanical evaluation. Conclusion: Administration of pregabalin did not affect fracture healing process adversely in rats.