Pregabalin, a drug made by Pfizer, Inc., is used to treat nerve pain, epilepsy, and fibromyalgia. While it is not known exactly how the drug works to treat these conditions, it is known that pregabalin binds to certain parts of calcium channels in the central nervous system. The drug is taken by mouth, usually two or three times a day. Some possible side effects of pregabalin include dizziness, coordination problems, and weight gain.
Pregabalin (
Lyrica®) is a prescription medication used to treat the following conditions:
Pregabalin is made by Pfizer, Inc.
How Does Pregabalin Work?
It is not known exactly how pregabalin works to prevent partial seizures in people with epilepsy. Additionally, it is not known exactly how pregabalin works for nerve pain or fibromyalgia. It is known that pregabalin binds to certain parts of calcium channels in the central nervous system, and this may be how pregabalin works for seizures, nerve pain, and
anxiety. Although pregabalin is not approved for
anxiety treatment, it has anti-anxiety properties and may be an effective
anxiety medication.
Pregabalin for Nerve Pain
Six studies have evaluated the effectiveness of pregabalin for treating nerve pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy or
postherpetic neuralgia. In these studies, people who took pregabalin experienced less pain, compared to those not taking pregabalin. Some people experienced pain relief very quickly, within one week of starting pregabalin.
Pregabalin for Fibromyalgia
In two different studies, pregabalin was shown to be effective for treating pain due to fibromyalgia. Some people taking pregabalin experienced pain relief as quickly as within one week. In general, these studies found that pregabalin 600 mg per day was not more effective (but caused more side effects) than pregabalin 450 mg per day.
Pregabalin for Epilepsy
Pregabalin was evaluated in three studies for treating partial
seizures in people with
epilepsy. These studies included people who were already taking one to three other seizure medications and whose seizures were not adequately controlled. Depending on the pregabalin dose, people who added pregabalin to their existing seizure medications decreased their number of seizures per month by up to 51 percent.
When and How to Take Pregabalin
Some general considerations for when and how to take pregabalin include:
- Pregabalin comes in capsule form. It is taken by mouth, usually two or three times daily.
- Pregabalin can be taken with or without food. If pregabalin upsets your stomach, try taking it with food.
- Pregabalin should be taken at the same times each day to maintain even levels of the drug in your blood.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Pregabalin will not work if you stop taking it.
- Do not stop taking pregabalin without first discussing it with your healthcare provider (see Lyrica Withdrawal).
Dosing Information for Pregabalin
The dose of pregabalin that your healthcare provider recommends will vary depending on a number of factors, including:
- The medical condition being treated
- Other medications you may be taking
- Other medical conditions you may have.
As always, do not adjust your pregabalin dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
Side Effects of Pregabalin
As with any medicine, side effects are possible with pregabalin. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Common side effects of pregabalin include but are not limited to:
(Click Pregabalin Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
The following eMedTV articles describe specific side effects of pregabalin:
Pregabalin Drug Interactions
Pregabalin: What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking pregabalin if you have:
- A history of drug or alcohol abuse
- Kidney disease, including kidney failure (renal failure)
- Heart disease, especially congestive heart failure (CHF)
- An irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia)
- A bleeding disorder
- Any allergies, including allergies to food, dyes, or preservatives.
Also let your healthcare provider know if you are:
You should also make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose of Pregabalin?
It is not known what to expect from a pregabalin overdose. In previous studies, very high doses of pregabalin (up to 8000 mg) did not cause any problems (other than the usual
pregabalin side effects).
If you happen to overdose on pregabalin, seek medical attention immediately.
How Should Pregabalin Be Stored?
Pregabalin should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Store pregabalin capsules in an airtight container.
Keep pregabalin and all other medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Pregabalin?
If you do not take your pregabalin as scheduled, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Pregabalin capsules are available in the following strengths:
- Pregabalin 25 mg
- Pregabalin 50 mg
- Pregabalin 75 mg
- Pregabalin 100 mg
- Pregabalin 150 mg
- Pregabalin 200 mg
- Pregabalin 300 mg
- Pregabalin 225 mg.
Is There a Generic Version of Pregabalin?
Currently, there is no generic pregabalin licensed for sale
(see Generic Lyrica).
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