In this experimental study on healthy volunteers we explored the effect of pregabalin alone and in combination with remifentanil on acute experimental pain and ventilatory function.

Pain during cold pressor test (CPT) was scored at all dose levels of remifentanil on a visual analogue scale (VAS 0-100 mm). Ventilatory function was measured by spirometry registering respiratory frequency (breaths/min), minute volume (L/min) and expiratory end-tidal carbon dioxide tension (mmHg).

Side effects such as nausea and sedation were registered.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Healthy volunteers,
• > 18 yrs < 55 yrs,
• negative pregnancy test

Exclusion Criteria:

• Pregnancy,
• nursing,
• known heart-, lung- or liver disease,
• kidney failure/peptic ulcers,
• use of liver enzyme-inducing medications,
• known allergy against the medications used in the trial,
• use of psychotropic drugs, analgesics or alcohol used the last 24 hours before the trial,
• body weight > 100 kg or 30% deviation from normal weight,
• participant in other studies during the last 2 months,
• individuals who do not master Norwegian language