Lyrica is a prescription drug developed, manufactured and marketed by Pfizer that is indicated for the treatment of four types of medical conditions: neuropathic pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy, post herpetic neuralgia, adjunctive therapy for adults with partial onset seizures and fibromyalgia. In 2004, the Food and Drug Administration approved Lyrica, which works by binding to receptors on cells in the central and peripheral nervous systems to relieve pain and control seizures.
Medical Conditions
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, diabetic peripheral neuropathy is a nerve disorder caused by the progression of diabetes and characterized by nerve damage throughout the body, with symptoms that include pain, tingling, numbness and loss of feeling in the hands, feet, arms and legs. Diabetic neuropathy afflicts about 60 to 70 percent of diabetics, notes NIDDKD. Post herpetic neuralgia is pain in the nerves associated during and long after a rash was infected with shingles or herpes virus. Partial seizures occur when there is abnormal electrical activity in any one part of the brain. Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition of pain in the muscles, ligaments and tendons throughout the body that occurs in approximately 2 percent of people in the U.S., particularly women, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Dosage
Lyrica is supplied in various colored capsules containing 25mg to 300mg of pregabalin, the active ingredient, and in 20 fluid oz. of 20mg per mL solution. Lyrica is taken orally with or without meals one to three times per day as directed by a physician. The dose is determined by condition, severity and tolerance.
Warnings
Lyrica has several warnings that are on the product label. It can increase suicidal thoughts or behavior. Lyrica can cause angioedema, which is swelling of the head, neck and throat that may progress into a life-threatening respiratory emergency; these cases require immediate discontinuation of Lyrica. Some people can be hypersensitive to Lyrica and react with hives and wheezing, requiring immediate discontinuation of the drug. Lyrica can increase the frequency of seizures in patients with seizure disorders who discontinue the drug too fast. Rapid withdrawal of Lyrica in patients with other conditions can cause insomnia, headache, nausea and diarrhea. Lyrica can cause drowsiness and dizziness, affecting the ability to operate machinery or drive a vehicle. It can also cause increased water retention in the legs, weight gain, increase risk of tumors and blurred vision.
Adverse Reactions
Adverse reactions affect the whole body, digestive system, and nervous and respiratory systems. Common reported adverse reactions include lack of energy and strength, accidental injury, dry mouth, constipation, non-coordination of the muscle movements, vertigo, confusion, and shortness of breath. People taking Lyrica who have any adverse reaction should talk with their physician.
Risks
According to Drugs.com, patients with certain medical conditions have a higher risk for adverse reactions when taking Lyrica. Patients allergic to pregabalin should not take the drug. Patients with congestive heart failure, diabetes, kidney disease, depression, and drug or alcohol addiction may require close monitoring.
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