People who suffer with neuropathic pain (pain caused by misfiring nerves) are often prescribed Lyrica, also known by its generic name pregabalin. Lyrica is FDA approved for neuropathic pain related to fibromyalgia, diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage due to diabetes) and postherpetic pain. Other uses for Lyrica include the pain of peripheral vascular disease and radiculopathy (pain caused by spinal nerves). Patients with a history of heart disease or kidney failure should inform their doctors before taking this medication. After about a week of use, many patients report significant improvement in their pain. Lyrica is prescribed in 75, 150, 300 or 300 mg a day doses, divided into three daily doses. While Lyrica has been through rigourous testing and has been shown safe to use, it can have side effects.
Peripheral Edema
More than 10 percent of patients taking this medication will stop taking it because of swelling in their hands, feet or legs. This symptom is usually noted within the first few weeks of beginning the medication. Patients notice that their rings won't come off or that they can't get their shoes on. The swelling will go away with discontinuation of the medication.
Foggy Thinking
Frequently, patients taking Lyrica state that they "aren't thinking right" when they take this medication. Nine percent will notice feeling like they are wandering around in a fog and are unable to think logically. This can be frightening to someone who needs to function in a daily job or operate heavy machinery.
Dry Mouth, Dizziness and Somnolence
Dry mouth, dizziness and somnolence (excessive sleepiness), experienced by greater than 10 percent of patients, are the most common side effects of Lyrica. The somnolence and dizziness can improve over time. While waiting for these side effects to pass, it is recommended that patients do not try to operate machinery or drive a car. Dry mouth is a persistent problem that some patients try to overcome by chewing on gum or mints.
Weight Gain and Blurry Vision
Weight gain occurs over a period of time, and many patients will describe to their physicians a noticeable weight gain but fail to associate it with the Lyrica. One to 12 percent will experience blurry vision. Blurring of the vision may occur immediately or over time while taking Lyrica.
Less Common Side Effects
In clinical trials, Lyrica has been shown to be associated with incontinence, impotence, abnormal gait, emotional ups and downs and shortness of breath. These side effects are highly unusual but can occur.
References
- Official reprint from UpToDate
- Lyrica Package Insert
- "Neurology"; Cognitive effects of pregabalin in healthy volunteers; Salinsky M, Storzbach D, Munoz S. 2010
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