Lyrica is a medication used to treat fibromyalgia, neuropathic pain in diabetic patients and seizures. It is also used to treat postherpetic neuralgia, which MayoClinic.com notes is a complication of shingles. It is available by prescription only and is prescribed in different doses depending on the condition treated. Lyrica is available in capsule and liquid form.
Dosage for Neuropathic Pain
Diabetic patients experiencing neuropathic pain due to diabetic peripheral neuropathy are started on Lyrica at a dosage of 50mg three times a day for a total daily dosage of 150mg, explains Drugs.com. Depending on the how patient tolerates the medication, it can be increased at the physician's discretion to 100mg three times a day, for a daily dosage of 300mg per day. Kidney function must be monitored closely in these patients. Lyrica is excreted through the kidneys and decreased kidney function can be problematic.
Dosage for Postherpetic Neuralgia
Patients treated with Lyrica for postherpetic neuralgia may be asked to take the medication two to three times a day. Patients on a twice daily schedule are prescribed 75 to 150mg twice daily, whereas patients taking it three times a day will be given 50 to 100mg. The total daily dosage for postherpetic neuralgia patients is 150 to 300mg per day, notes Rxlist.com.
Dosage for Partial Onset Seizures
When combined with other medications, Drugs.com explains that Lyrica is effective in treating patients with partial onset seizures. Adults with this condition may be prescribed Lyrica in dosages ranging from 150mg per day to 600mg per day, which is the maximum dosage recommended for Lyrica. Patients are prescribed Lyrica starting at lower dosages, with dose increases over time until the desired effect of seizure control is achieved.
Dosage for Fibromyalgia
Patients with fibromyalgia are started on a dose of 75mg twice a day, for a total daily dose of 150mg per day. Rxlist.com explains that if Lyrica is easily tolerated by these patients, doctors may increase the dosage to a total daily dosage of 300 to 450mg per day. It is not recommended that fibromyalgia patients exceed 450mg per day, in order to prevent side effects.
