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


Helvacı G., Arslan R., Bektaş Türkmen N.

JOURNAL OF PHARMACY AND PHARMACOLOGY, vol.78, no.8, pp.1-10, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 78 Issue: 8
  • Publication Date: 2026
  • Doi Number: 10.1093/jpp/rgag054
  • Journal Name: JOURNAL OF PHARMACY AND PHARMACOLOGY
  • Journal Indexes: Scopus, Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), BIOSIS, EMBASE
  • Page Numbers: pp.1-10
  • Karadeniz Technical 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.