Lyrica

Lyrica is a drug used to treat nerve pain, fibromyalgia, and epilepsy. While it is not known exactly how Lyrica works to treat these conditions, it is known that Lyrica binds to certain parts of calcium channels in the central nervous system. The drug comes in capsule form and is taken by mouth, usually two or three times a day. Side effects of Lyrica can include dizziness, drowsiness, and weight gain.

 

What Is Lyrica?

Lyrica® (pregabalin) is a prescription medication used to treat the following conditions:
 
(Click Lyrica Uses for more information on what the drug is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes Lyrica?

Lyrica is made by Pfizer, Inc.
 

How Does Lyrica Work?

It is not known exactly how Lyrica works to prevent partial seizures in people with epilepsy. Additionally, it is not known exactly how Lyrica works for nerve pain or fibromyalgia. It is known that Lyrica binds to certain parts of calcium channels in the central nervous system, and this may be how Lyrica works for seizures, nerve pain, and anxiety. Although Lyrica is not approved for anxiety treatment, it has anti-anxiety properties and may be an effective anxiety medication.
 

Lyrica Effects

Several studies have looked at Lyrica for treating seizures, nerve pain, and fibromyalgia.
 
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).
     

Dosing Information for Lyrica

The dose of Lyrica that your healthcare provider recommends will vary depending on a number of factors, including:
 
  • The medical condition being treated
  • Other medications you may be taking
  • Other medical conditions you may have.
     
As always, do not adjust your Lyrica dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
 
(Click Lyrica Dosage for more information.)
 

Side Effects of Lyrica

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with Lyrica. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
 
Common side effects of Lyrica include but are not limited to:
 
(Click Lyrica Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 
The following eMedTV articles describe specific side effects of Lyrica:
 

Drug Interactions With Lyrica

Lyrica can potentially interact with a few other medicines (see Lyrica Drug Interactions).
 

Lyrica: What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?

You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking Lyrica if you have:
 
  • A history of drug or alcohol abuse
  • Kidney disease, including kidney failure (renal failure)
  • Heart disease, especially congestive heart failure (CHF)
  • An irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia)
  • A bleeding disorder
  • Any allergies, including allergies to food, dyes, or preservatives.
     
Also let your healthcare provider know if you are:
 
You should also make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Click Lyrica Precautions and Warnings to learn more, including information on who should not take the drug.)
 

What If I Take an Overdose of Lyrica?

It is not known what to expect from a Lyrica overdose. In previous studies, very high doses of Lyrica (up to 8000 mg) did not cause any problems (other than the usual Lyrica side effects).
 
If you happen to overdose on Lyrica, seek medical attention immediately.
 
(Click Lyrica Overdose for more information.)
 

How Should Lyrica Be Stored?

Lyrica should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Store Lyrica capsules in an airtight container.
 
Keep Lyrica and all other medications out of the reach of children.
 

What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Lyrica?

If you do not take your Lyrica as scheduled, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
 

Strengths of Lyrica

Lyrica capsules are available in the following strengths:
 
  • Lyrica 25 mg
  • Lyrica 50 mg
  • Lyrica 75 mg
  • Lyrica 100 mg
  • Lyrica 150 mg
  • Lyrica 200 mg
  • Lyrica 300 mg
  • Lyrica 225 mg.
     

Is There a Generic Version of Lyrica?

Currently, there is no generic Lyrica licensed for sale (see Generic Lyrica).
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;