India, May 22 -- The Union health ministry on Friday brought the widely prescribed drug Pregabalin under the stricter Schedule H1 category of the Drugs Rules, 1945, imposing tighter controls on its sale and distribution amid growing concerns over its misuse and abuse, particularly among youth.

Pregabalin, commonly prescribed for chronic pain, neuropathies, fibromyalgia, and certain neurological conditions, was earlier regulated under Schedule H.

The ministry cited reports from states and said they highlighted the increasing misuse of the drug for its sedative, euphoric, and dissociative effects. Authorities have reported seizures of illegally stocked and unauthorised sale of Pregabalin from parts of the country.

In a gazette notificati...