Medications and Drugs

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Brand Names: Lyrica

Generic Name: pregabalin (Pronunciation: pre GAB a lin)

• What is pregabalin (Lyrica)?
• What are the possible side effects of pregabalin (Lyrica)?
• What is the most important information I should know about pregabalin (Lyrica)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking pregabalin (Lyrica)?
• How should I take pregabalin (Lyrica)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Lyrica)?
• What happens if I overdose (Lyrica)?
• What should I avoid while taking pregabalin (Lyrica)?
• What other drugs will affect pregabalin (Lyrica)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is pregabalin (Lyrica)?

Pregabalin is an anti-epileptic drug, also called an anticonvulsant. It works by slowing down impulses in the brain that cause seizures. Pregabalin also affects chemicals in the brain that send pain signals across the nervous system.

Pregabalin is used to control seizures and to treat fibromyalgia. It is also used to treat pain caused by nerve damage in people with diabetes (diabetic neuropathy) or herpes zoster (post-herpetic neuralgia).

Pregabalin may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Lyrica 50 mg

white, imprinted with Pfizer, PGN 50

Lyrica 75 mg

orange/white, imprinted with Pfizer, PGN 75

What are the possible side effects of pregabalin (Lyrica)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, depression, anxiety, or if you feel agitated, hostile, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.

Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• muscle pain, weakness, or tenderness (especially if you also have a fever and feel tired);
• easy bruising or bleeding; or
• swelling in your hands or feet, rapid weight gain.

Less serious side effects may include:

• dizziness or drowsiness, anxiety;
• blurred vision;
• loss of balance or coordination;
• problems with memory or concentration;
• dry mouth;
• skin rash or itching;
• constipation, stomach pain;
• increased appetite; or
• joint or muscle pain.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about pregabalin (Lyrica)?

You may have thoughts about suicide while taking this medication. Your doctor will need to check you at regular visits. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

Call your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, depression, anxiety, or if you feel agitated, hostile, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.

If you are taking pregabalin to prevent seizures, keep taking the medication even if you feel fine. You may have an increase in seizures if you stop taking pregabalin. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Do not change your dose of pregabalin without your doctor's advice. Tell your doctor if the medication does not seem to work as well in treating your condition.

If you stop taking pregabalin suddenly, your seizures may become worse or you may have withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms include headache, sleep problems, nausea, and diarrhea. Do not stop using pregabalin suddenly without first talking to your doctor. You may need to use less and less before you stop the medication completely.

Carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet stating that you are taking pregabalin, in case of emergency. Any doctor, dentist, or emergency medical care provider who treats you should know that you are taking a seizure medication.