Rutin enhances the analgesic efficacy of low-dose pregabalin without sedative side effects in a rat model of chronic constriction injury


HELVACI G., ARSLAN R., BEKTAŞ TÜRKMEN N.

Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, vol.78, no.5, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus) identifier identifier identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 78 Issue: 5
  • Publication Date: 2026
  • Doi Number: 10.1093/jpp/rgag054
  • Journal Name: Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, BIOSIS, EMBASE
  • Keywords: chronic constriction injury, combination therapy, neuropathic pain, pregabalin, rutin
  • Anadolu University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the antiallodynic and antihyperalgesic effects of rutin alone and in combination with pregabalin in a chronic constriction injury-induced neuropathic pain model. Methods: The potential antiallodynic and antihyperalgesic effects of combining rutin at doses of 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg with 3 mg/kg of pregabalin were evaluated in a rat neuropathic pain model induced by chronic constriction injury. Assessments were conducted over a 180-minute period using an electronic von Frey device and the plantar test. Spontaneous locomotor activity was evaluated using a Plexiglas activity cage. Key findings: All combination groups exhibited statistically significant antiallodynic and antihyperalgesic effects at specific time intervals compared to the groups where rutin or 3 mg/kg pregabalin were administered alone. Furthermore, the efficacy of the combinations was found to be comparable to that of the group treated with 30 mg/kg pregabalin. The 25 mg/kg rutin combination was most effective and independent of locomotor activity. Conclusions: Given rutin’s low side-effect profile and the dose-dependent risks of pregabalin, their combination at low-dose pregabalin may represent a safe and effective alternative for neuropathic pain treatment.