Lyrica

Uses of Lyrica

Lyrica is commonly used to treat nerve pain that may be associated with diabetes, herpes zoster (shingles), or injury to the spinal cord. It is also used to treat pain from fibromyalgia.

Pregabalin is also used in people with epilepsy to treat and prevent seizures, sometimes called convulsions.

Precautions and Warnings

Do not take pregabalin unless it has been prescribed to you by a healthcare provider. Take it as prescribed.

Do not share pregabalin with other people, even if they have the same condition as you. It may harm them.

Keep pregabalin out of the reach of children. Pregabalin is a controlled substance because it can be misused or lead to dependence. Store pregabalin in a safe place to protect it from theft. It is illegal to sell or give away this medicine.

If you take the liquid form of pregabalin, use an accurate measuring device to measure your dose. A household spoon is not an accurate measuring device and may cause you to take the wrong dose. Ask your pharmacist to recommend an appropriate measuring device.

Do not chew, cut, or crush pregabalin extended-release tablets.

Take pregabalin extended-release tablets after your evening meal.

Stopping pregabalin suddenly can increase your risk for seizures or withdrawal reactions such as anxiety, diarrhea, headache, trouble sleeping, and nausea. Do not stop taking pregabalin without talking with your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider will tell you how to slowly stop pregabalin.

Pregabalin can affect your alertness or coordination. Do not drive or do other activities that require alertness or coordination until you know how pregabalin affects you.

Tell your healthcare provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them determine if pregabalin is right for you.

Tell your healthcare provider if you have any of the following.

• History of angioedema
• Bleeding problems
• Breathing problems
• Depression, mood problems, or suicidal thoughts or behaviors
• Diabetes
• Heart problems, including heart failure
• Kidney problems
• History of abusing alcohol, street drugs, or prescription medicines
• Plans to father a child

Pregabalin may interact with other medicines and supplements. Before using pregabalin, tell your healthcare provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. See the Interactions section for more details.

Pregabalin may harm an unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you are or plan to become pregnant.

Pregabalin passes into breast milk. Breastfeeding is not recommended if you are taking pregabalin. Tell your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.

Dosage

Side Effects

Common effects:

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Swelling of the ankles, feet, hands
• Vomiting
• Weight gain