All Wales gabapentinoid resources for chronic pain (consultation)

We would welcome your comments on the draft document titled All Wales gabapentinoid resources for chronic pain, and the associated Equality and Health Impact Assessment (EqHIA) form.

Gabapentinoids are increasingly prescribed for a range of pain conditions, despite very limited evidence to support their use outside neuropathic pain. There is also increasing concern about their safety and the harms associated with their use, including a rise in deaths in which pregabalin has been recorded on the death certificate in Wales and a substantial increase in gabapentinoid-related enquiries to the Welsh National Poisons Unit.

This growing body of evidence, together with variation in prescribing practice across Wales, has highlighted the need for resources to support the safe and appropriate use of gabapentinoids for chronic pain. The All Wales gabapentinoid resources for chronic pain have been developed through extensive engagement with the All Wales Gabapentinoid Taskforce, a multidisciplinary group of pain specialists, pharmacists, clinicians, GPs, physiotherapists, and substance misuse specialists, with representation from all Welsh health boards.

There are four resource packs, which can be used either together or individually. The resources provide guidance to support shared decision-making with patients, practical advice on the appropriate use and deprescribing of gabapentinoids, and patient-centred approaches to chronic pain management. They are mainly aimed at healthcare professionals working in GP practices, including pharmacists delivering structured medicines reviews, but may also be useful for healthcare professionals working in specialist settings such as pain services, neurology, rheumatology, orthopaedics, and substance misuse services.

The document and associated EqHIA form and feedback form can be accessed below.

Closing date: Tuesday 24th February 2026