Lyrica for Nerve Pain
Six studies have evaluated the effectiveness of Lyrica for treating nerve pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy or
postherpetic neuralgia. In these studies, people who took Lyrica experienced less pain, compared to those not taking Lyrica. Some people experienced pain relief very quickly, within one week of starting Lyrica.
Lyrica for Fibromyalgia
In two different studies, Lyrica was shown to be effective for treating pain due to fibromyalgia. Some people taking Lyrica experienced pain relief as quickly as within one week. In general, these studies found that Lyrica 600 mg per day was not more effective (but caused more side effects) than Lyrica 450 mg per day.
Lyrica for Epilepsy
Lyrica was evaluated in three studies for treating partial seizures in people with
epilepsy. These studies included people who were already taking one to three other
seizure medications and whose seizures were not adequately controlled. Depending on the Lyrica dose, people who added Lyrica to their existing seizure medications decreased their number of seizures per month by up to 51 percent.
When and How to Take Lyrica
Some general considerations for when and how to take Lyrica include:
- Lyrica comes in capsule form. It is taken by mouth, usually two or three times daily.
- Lyrica can be taken with or without food. If Lyrica upsets your stomach, try taking it with food.
- Lyrica should be taken at the same times each day to maintain even levels of the drug in your blood.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Lyrica will not work if you stop taking it.
- Do not stop taking Lyrica without first discussing it with your healthcare provider (see Lyrica Withdrawal).
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