Lyrica Medication
Oct 29, 2019 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Because LYRICA is eliminated primarily by renal excretion, adjust the dose in patients with reduced renal function see Patients with Renal Impairment. In view of the dose-dependent adverse reactions, treatment with doses above 300 mg/day is not recommended see ADVERSE REACTIONS.
Generic Name: Pregabalin (pre-GAB-a-lin)
Drug Class: Anticonvulsant
Table of Contents
Overview
Lyrica (pregabalin) is an anticonvulsant (anti-epileptic) and is used to control seizures. It works by reducing the number of pain signals in the brain from damaged nerves that cause seizures. Lyrica may be taken in combination with other medications to treat certain types of seizures in people who have epilepsy.
Lyrica is also used to treat fibromyalgia as well as for treating pain caused by nerve damage in people with diabetes (diabetic neuropathy), pain from nerves damaged by spinal cord injury, herpes zoster, or post-herpetic neuralgia.
This information is for educational purposes only. Not every known side effect, adverse effect, or drug interaction is in this database. If you have questions about your medicines, talk to your health care provider.
How to Take It
Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. This medicine should be taken at the same time each day on an empty stomach or with food. Continue to take this medicine even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses.
Side Effects
Side effects that may occur while taking this medicine include:
- changes in weight, weight gain
- headache
- speech problems
- swollen arms / legs
- difficulty concentrating
- drowsiness
- dizziness
- tremor
- constipation
- abnormal gait
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience:
- panic attacks
- blurred vision
- suicidal thoughts
- wheezing
- confusion
- rash, hives or itching
- change in urine output
- unusual bleeding / bruising
- irritability
- difficulty breathing
- sores or ulcers in the mouth or on the lips
Warnings & Precautions
- While taking Lyrica, you may experience depression and thoughts of suicide. You should be regularly checked by your doctor while taking this medication.
- Talk with your doctor if you use street drugs, drink alcohol, or use prescription medications.
- DO NOT stop taking this medication, even if you are feeling better. You may experience withdrawal symptoms such as headache, sleep problems, nausea, and diarrhea, and also seizures. Talk to your doctor about how to stop using Lyrica safely.
- DO NOT drive a car or do any activities that could be dangerous until you know how this drug will affect you. You may feel dizzy or drowsy while taking it. Consult with your doctor for more information.
- ALWAYS either carry an ID card or wear a medical alert tag disclosing that you take this medication. Any health care professional who treats you should know that you take seizure medication.
- This medication may help control your symptoms, but does not cure them. Experiencing the full benefits of Lyrica might take several weeks or longer.
- For an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. For non-emergencies, contact your local or regional poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.
Drug Interactions
Before taking any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. This includes supplements and herbal products.
Dosage & Missed Dose
Lyrica is available in liquid form or capsule. A typical dose is 300 mg each day, split into 2 or 3 doses.
If you skip a dose, take your next dose as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double doses or take extra medicine to make up for the missed dose.
Storage
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (preferably not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed.
Pregnancy/Nursing
If you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. It’s not known whether Lyrica is safe for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
More Information
For more information, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or health care provider, or you can visit this website, https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a605045.html for additional information from the manufacturer of this drug.