Lyrica

(Pregabalin)

The active ingredient in Lyrica is pregabalin. Although the mechanism of action of pregabalin is not fully understood it is thought to work in the central nervous system (CNS) and lower the release of certain pain-signaling chemicals in the brain to relieve pain. Pregabalin is also believed to block abnormal electrical activity in the brain that causes seizures, slowing their spread. Essentially, pregabalin works by calming overactive nerves in the body.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Lyrica. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Lyrica:

• Lyrica is taken by mouth typically 2 to 3 times daily.
• Follow the prescription label's directions, taking it at the same time each day.
• You may take it with or without food. If stomach upset occurs, take it with food.
• If it's nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the scheduled one. Never take double or extra doses.
• When discontinuing Lyrica, taper gradually over a minimum of 1 week.

The most common side effects of Lyrica seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

• Dizziness.
• Drowsiness.
• Dry mouth.
• Constipation.
• Weight gain.
• Trouble concentrating.
• Blurred vision and other vision problems.
• Swelling of the hands, feet, arms, or legs.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Lyrica. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Allergic reactions or angioedema—skin rash, itching, hives, blisters, swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, arms, or legs, trouble breathing or swallowing.
• Suicidal thoughts or self-harm, worsening mood, feelings of depression- (You, your family, or your caregiver should call your doctor right away if you notice any unusual changes in mood or behavior).
• Sores or skin problems (if you have diabetes).
• Easy bruising and unusual bleeding.
• Unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness.
• Severe drowsiness or sedation.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Lyrica. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Lyrica, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Kidney disease.
• Lung disease (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).
• Suicidal thoughts, plans, or attempt.
• A mood disorder or depression.
• Heart problems (heart failure).
• A bleeding disorder or low levels of platelets in your blood.
• Diabetes (unless you are taking pregabalin to treat diabetic neuropathy).
• Drug or alcohol addiction.
• Severe allergic reaction (angioedema).

• Combining Lyrica with other drugs that slow breathing can lead to dangerous side effects or death. Pregabalin may cause life-threatening breathing problems. Consult your doctor before using opioids, sleeping pills, cold or allergy medicines, muscle relaxers, or medications for anxiety or seizures. If you suspect an overdose, immediately contact a poison control center or emergency room.

In clinical studies with Lyrica, some patients experienced a decrease in pain as early as the first week, which persisted throughout the entire study period. While Lyrica begins working immediately, it may take several weeks for some people to feel its full pain-relieving effects.

When Lyrica is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking so they can check for drug interactions, including:

• Alcohol.
• Antihistamines for allergy, cough, and cold.
• Opioid painkillers (oxycodone).
• An angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, which is a medicine for high blood pressure, heart failure, and certain kidney problems.
• Pioglitazone (Actos) or rosiglitazone (Avandia), which is a medicine for diabetes.
• Any other medicine that causes dizziness and sleepiness, such as prescription pain medicines, sleep medicines, insomnia medicines (zolpidem), and medicines for anxiety (lorazepam).
• Other seizure medications.
• Certain medications for depression (amitriptyline, fluoxetine, sertraline).
• Medications that relax muscles for surgery.
• Narcotic medications for pain.

Lyrica is available in the following dosage forms that are taken by mouth:

• 82.5 mg, 165 mg, 330 mg extended-release oral tablets (Lyrica CR).
• 25 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg, 225 mg, 300 mg oral capsules.
• 20 mg/mL oral solution.

Lyrica is a medication that can be abused. Store it at room temperature between 68 F to 77 F (20 C to 25 C). Make sure to keep out of the reach of children and to dispose of any unused medication after the expiration date.

Pfizer is the pharmaceutical company that manufactures Lyrica.

The brand name Lyrica is available as a lower-cost generic.

Do not suddenly stop taking pregabalin without checking first with your doctor and taking their advice. Stopping pregabalin can increase your risk for seizures or withdrawal reactions such as anxiety, diarrhea, headache, trouble sleeping, and nausea. Your doctor may want to slowly lower the dose over time to avoid any side effects.

There are not enough studies to determine if Lyrica is safe during pregnancy. However, in animal studies, birth defects were seen in the offspring (babies) of male animals treated with pregabalin. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you. Follow your doctor's instructions about taking seizure medication if you are pregnant. Seizure control is very important during pregnancy, and having a seizure could harm both mother and baby.

Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you. Breastfeeding is not recommended since pregabalin passes into breast milk.