Lyrica is a prescription medication known for treating a variety of conditions, primarily those related to nerve pain and seizures. It’s crucial to understand what Lyrica is used for, along with its potential risks and side effects, before starting treatment. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Lyrica, its approved uses, important warnings, and common side effects.
Main Uses of Lyrica
Lyrica, also known by its generic name pregabalin, is approved by the FDA to treat several specific conditions in adults and children. These include:
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory and mood issues. Lyrica can help manage the pain associated with fibromyalgia, making daily activities more manageable for patients.
Diabetic Nerve Pain (Diabetic Neuropathy)
Diabetes can sometimes lead to nerve damage, particularly in the hands and feet, causing pain, numbness, tingling, and burning sensations. Lyrica is effective in alleviating this type of nerve pain, known as diabetic neuropathy, improving the quality of life for diabetic patients suffering from nerve pain.
Spinal Cord Injury Nerve Pain
Nerve damage resulting from a spinal cord injury can cause chronic pain. Lyrica is indicated to help manage neuropathic pain caused by spinal cord injuries, providing relief from the often debilitating pain associated with these injuries.
Pain After Shingles (Postherpetic Neuralgia)
Shingles, a painful rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus (the same virus that causes chickenpox), can sometimes lead to persistent nerve pain even after the rash clears up. This condition, called postherpetic neuralgia, can be effectively treated with Lyrica, reducing the intensity and duration of the pain.
Partial-Onset Seizures
Lyrica is also used as an adjunctive therapy to treat partial-onset seizures in patients 1 month of age and older with epilepsy. This means it is used in combination with other anti-seizure medications to help control seizures when other medications alone are not sufficient.
Important Warnings and Precautions
While Lyrica can be beneficial for treating the conditions mentioned above, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks and warnings associated with its use.
Serious Allergic Reactions
Lyrica can cause serious allergic reactions, even life-threatening ones. It’s crucial to stop taking Lyrica and seek immediate medical attention if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
- Swelling of the face, mouth, lips, gums, tongue, throat, or neck
- Trouble breathing
- Rash, hives, or blisters
Suicidal Thoughts and Behavior
Like other anti-epileptic drugs, Lyrica may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior in a small number of people (about 1 in 500). Patients, families, and caregivers should be vigilant for any changes in mood or behavior and immediately report them to a healthcare provider. These changes may include:
- New or worsening depression
- Anxiety
- Restlessness
- Trouble sleeping
- Panic attacks
- Anger, irritability, or agitation
- Aggression or dangerous impulses
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
It is crucial not to stop taking Lyrica suddenly if you experience suicidal thoughts without consulting your doctor first.
Breathing Problems
Taking Lyrica with other medications that cause drowsiness, such as opioid painkillers, anxiety medications, or sleep aids, can lead to serious breathing problems. This risk is also higher for individuals with pre-existing respiratory issues. Watch for increased sleepiness or shallow breathing, especially when starting Lyrica or increasing the dosage, and seek immediate medical help if breathing difficulties occur.
Swelling (Edema)
Lyrica can cause swelling of the hands, legs, and feet. This can be particularly concerning for people with heart problems, as it may exacerbate their condition. Report any unexplained swelling to your doctor.
Dizziness and Sleepiness
Dizziness and sleepiness are common side effects of Lyrica. These effects can impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid these activities until you know how Lyrica affects you.
Drug Interactions
It’s vital to inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, especially if you are taking:
- Opioid painkillers (like oxycodone): Combining Lyrica with opioids can significantly increase the risk of severe sleepiness, breathing problems, and even death.
- Anxiety medications (like lorazepam) or sleep aids (like zolpidem): These medications can also intensify drowsiness and respiratory depression when taken with Lyrica.
- ACE inhibitors: Taking Lyrica with ACE inhibitors may increase the risk of swelling and hives.
- Certain diabetes medicines: Combining Lyrica with certain diabetes medications like rosiglitazone or pioglitazone may increase the risk of swelling and weight gain.
Common Side Effects
Some of the most common side effects of Lyrica include:
- Dizziness
- Blurry vision
- Weight gain
- Sleepiness
- Trouble concentrating
- Swelling of hands and feet
- Dry mouth
- Feeling “high”
If you have diabetes, be particularly attentive to skin sores and inform your doctor promptly if any develop.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding before starting Lyrica. Breastfeeding is generally not recommended while taking Lyrica.
Misuse Potential
If you have a history of drug or alcohol abuse, you may be at a higher risk of misusing Lyrica. Discuss this with your doctor.
Discontinuation Syndrome
Do not stop taking Lyrica abruptly without consulting your doctor. Sudden discontinuation can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as headaches, nausea, diarrhea, trouble sleeping, increased sweating, anxiety, and, in people with epilepsy, more frequent seizures.
Dosage and Availability
Lyrica is available in capsule form in doses ranging from 25 mg to 300 mg and as a 20 mg/mL oral solution. The appropriate dosage will be determined by your doctor based on your condition and individual needs.
Conclusion
Lyrica is a valuable medication for managing specific types of nerve pain, fibromyalgia, and partial-onset seizures. However, it is not without risks. Understanding what Lyrica is used for, its potential side effects, and warnings is essential for safe and effective treatment. Always discuss your medical history and all medications you are taking with your doctor before starting Lyrica. For more detailed information, refer to the full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide for Lyrica, and the Prescribing Information and Medication Guide for Lyrica CR.
