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 and 30th days in terms of histological or biomechanical evaluation.

CONCLUSION

Administration of pregabalin did not affect fracture healing process adversely in rats.