Generic Name: Pregabalin Common Brand Name(s): Lyrica
Pregabalin is used to treat seizures, but has also been found to be effective in treating chronic nerve pain (burning, pins, and needles).
Common Side Effects:
Blurred vision, drowsiness, dizziness, mood disturbances, lack of coordination, nausea, vomiting, constipation, frequent urination, diarrhea, constipation, dry mouth, headache, insomnia, skin rash, fatigue
Side effects can be minimized by slowly increasing the dosage of medication over time.
Serious Side Effect to notify your healthcare provider if you develop:
- Swelling of your feet or ankles, confusion, tremors, easily bruised, seizure activity, fever, chills, clumsiness or unsteadiness, depression, memory problems, difficulty urinating, muscle pain or weakness, thoughts of suicide
Seek emergency medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Wheezing, difficulty breathing, bad cough or chest tightness
- Fever
- Itching
- Swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat
Precautions:
- This drug is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breast feeding. Talk with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant or breast-feeding.
- Avoid driving, or doing other tasks or activities that require alertness until you see how this medication affects you. It may cause dizziness or sleepiness
Drug Interactions:
- Increased drowsiness may occur if taken with alcohol or other medications, such as antihistamines, mood stabilizers or pain medications, which may cause drowsiness.
- There may be drug interactions that are not listed. It is important to keep your health care provider and pharmacist informed of all medications you are taking, including vitamins, minerals, herbal supplements and over-the-counter products that you are using.
- Avoid taking an antacid within 2 hours before or after you take the medication. Antacids may make it harder for your body to absorb the medication.
Consult your health care professional if you have any questions or concerns.
For additional information please see:
- MedLine http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginformation.html
- National MS Society http://www.nationalmssociety.org
- Safe Medication http://www.safemedication.com/default.aspx
- Mayo Clinic http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/drug-information/DrugHerbIndex