Illustration of brain activity with pregabalin and kidneys.

Pregabalin and Your Brain: Decoding Triphasic Waves and Encephalopathy

Reese Marlowe in Health & Wellness December 2025 • 4 min read.

"Unraveling the connection between medication, neurological symptoms, and kidney health."

The human brain, a marvel of complexity, operates through intricate electrical signals. These signals, normally synchronized, can sometimes become disrupted, leading to a range of neurological symptoms. One such disruption manifests as 'triphasic waves' on an electroencephalogram (EEG), a diagnostic tool that records brain activity. These waves, characterized by a distinct pattern, often signal underlying health issues, including medication-related problems.

Pregabalin, a medication frequently prescribed for nerve pain and certain types of seizures, has become a common topic of discussion. While effective for many, pregabalin can sometimes lead to unexpected side effects. This article delves into how pregabalin can, in specific circumstances, be linked to the appearance of triphasic waves and a condition known as encephalopathy – a broader term for brain dysfunction.

This exploration is especially relevant to those with kidney issues. Kidney function plays a crucial role in how our bodies process and eliminate medications. When kidney function declines, medications like pregabalin can accumulate in the body, potentially leading to adverse effects. We will examine the relationship between pregabalin toxicity, kidney health, and the manifestation of triphasic waves, offering clarity on this complex interplay.

Understanding Triphasic Waves and Encephalopathy: What You Need to Know

Illustration of brain activity with pregabalin and kidneys.

Triphasic waves, as mentioned, are distinctive patterns seen on an EEG. They appear as a series of three phases: a sharp positive wave followed by two negative waves. These waves are not a normal brain activity pattern, and their presence often indicates a metabolic or toxic disturbance in the brain. Encephalopathy, the broader condition associated with these waves, refers to a general dysfunction of the brain, leading to symptoms like confusion, altered mental status, and sometimes, more severe neurological problems.

Pregabalin's effects on the brain are multifaceted. While it primarily targets nerve pain and seizures, it can also influence brain function. In some individuals, particularly those with impaired kidney function, pregabalin can accumulate in the body. This accumulation can lead to the emergence of triphasic waves and encephalopathy. The mechanisms are complex, but the primary concern is that pregabalin, when not properly cleared by the kidneys, can disrupt the normal electrical activity of the brain.

Kidney Health: The kidneys filter pregabalin. If they're not working well, the drug builds up.
Brain Impact: This buildup can disrupt the brain's electrical activity, causing triphasic waves.
Symptoms: Confusion, drowsiness, and altered mental state may occur.
Diagnosis: An EEG helps identify triphasic waves.
Treatment: Often involves stopping pregabalin and supporting kidney function.

The interplay between pregabalin, kidney function, and the brain underscores the importance of personalized medicine and monitoring. Individuals taking pregabalin, especially those with pre-existing kidney conditions, should be closely monitored for any signs of neurological changes. Regular check-ups, kidney function tests, and awareness of potential side effects are essential for managing the risks associated with this medication.

Navigating the Complexities of Medication and Brain Health

Understanding the relationship between pregabalin, kidney health, and brain function is crucial for both patients and healthcare providers. Recognizing the potential for medication-induced encephalopathy, including the presence of triphasic waves, allows for timely intervention and improved patient outcomes. This knowledge underscores the need for a holistic approach to healthcare, where medication management, kidney function, and neurological health are all carefully considered in the pursuit of overall well-being.

About this Article -

This article was crafted using a human-AI hybrid and collaborative approach. AI assisted our team with initial drafting, research insights, identifying key questions, and image generation. Our human editors guided topic selection, defined the angle, structured the content, ensured factual accuracy and relevance, refined the tone, and conducted thorough editing to deliver helpful, high-quality information.See our About page for more information.

This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.1097/wnp.0000000000000511, Alternate LINK

Title: Triphasic Waves And Encephalopathy In The Setting Of Pregabalin Toxicity

Subject: Physiology (medical)

Journal: Journal of Clinical Neurophysiology

Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)

Authors: Pria Anand, Peter Wolfe Kaplan

Published: 2018-11-01

Everything You Need To Know

What are triphasic waves, and what do they indicate about brain function?

Triphasic waves are a distinctive pattern observed on an electroencephalogram (EEG). They consist of a series of three phases: a sharp positive wave followed by two negative waves. Their presence often suggests a metabolic or toxic disturbance affecting the brain. The appearance of triphasic waves can be associated with encephalopathy or medication related issues. While not a normal brain activity pattern, they act as an indicator of underlying health problems that need investigation. It's important to note that triphasic waves are not specific to any one condition and require further evaluation to determine the root cause.

How does pregabalin potentially lead to the development of triphasic waves and encephalopathy?

Pregabalin, a medication used for nerve pain and seizures, can in some instances contribute to the emergence of triphasic waves and encephalopathy. This is particularly relevant in individuals with impaired kidney function. When the kidneys aren't effectively filtering pregabalin, the medication can accumulate in the body, disrupting the normal electrical activity of the brain. While pregabalin is designed to modulate nerve signals, excessive levels due to poor kidney function can lead to these adverse neurological effects. Regular monitoring is crucial to prevent pregabalin toxicity, especially in those with kidney issues, which is essential in averting these complications. If pregabalin were properly cleared from the body this would minimize the risk of neurological issues.

Why is kidney health so important when considering the neurological side effects of pregabalin?

Kidney health is critical because the kidneys are responsible for filtering and eliminating pregabalin from the body. When kidney function is compromised, pregabalin can accumulate, leading to higher-than-intended levels in the bloodstream. This buildup can disrupt the brain's normal electrical activity, potentially causing triphasic waves and encephalopathy. Monitoring kidney function and adjusting the pregabalin dosage accordingly is essential to prevent these adverse neurological effects. Without proper kidney function, the risk of pregabalin toxicity significantly increases, impacting brain health. If other organs assisted in the filtering of pregabalin it would have less impact.

What steps can be taken to manage the risks associated with pregabalin, especially for individuals with kidney conditions?

For individuals with kidney conditions taking pregabalin, several steps can be taken to manage risks. First, regular kidney function tests are essential to monitor how effectively the medication is being cleared. Second, medication dosages may need to be adjusted based on kidney function to prevent accumulation. Third, patients should be closely monitored for any signs of neurological changes, such as confusion or altered mental state. Finally, awareness of potential side effects and open communication with healthcare providers are crucial for early intervention and improved outcomes. Lifestyle changes may be needed to help the kidneys do their job.

What is the connection between pregabalin, triphasic waves, encephalopathy, and how does this highlight the need for personalized medicine and monitoring?

The connection lies in how pregabalin, when not properly eliminated due to factors like impaired kidney function, can lead to an accumulation that disrupts normal brain activity, manifesting as triphasic waves and encephalopathy. This relationship underscores the necessity of personalized medicine and monitoring because individuals respond differently to medications, especially when underlying health conditions are present. Tailoring medication management to individual kidney function and neurological health allows for proactive adjustments, preventing potential toxicity and adverse effects. Regular check-ups, kidney function tests, and awareness of potential side effects become essential components of a holistic approach to healthcare, ultimately improving patient outcomes and well-being. More factors will become clear with further study.