Lyrica, known generically as pregabalin, is a prescription anticonvulsant drug used to treat seizures and symptoms of epilepsy. Lyrica is also used to treat pain associated with fibromyalgia and diabetic neuropathy. Individuals using Lyrica should follow a physician's advice on how to best end their therapy. It is typically recommended that patients gradually lower the dose of Lyrica over a week at the end of treatment.
Insomnia
Discontinuation of pain or anticonvulsant medication is frequently associated with sleep disturbances, including insomnia and vivid dreaming. Drug safety information reproduced at PudMed Health explains that like other anticonvulsants, discontinuation of Lyrica is also associated with insomnia. If Lyrica therapy is stopped in a sudden or abrupt manner, symptoms of insomnia can be particularly troublesome but typically subside within a week of discontinuation.
Headaches
Individuals who abruptly stop pain medications may experience withdrawal symptoms such as headaches; dizziness; and tinnitus, a persistent and painful buzzing or ringing in the ear. According to Drugs.com, withdrawal or discontinuation of Lyrica can result in headaches. In severe cases of Lyrica discontinuation, withdrawal symptoms can result in increased seizures, particularly in patients with a prior history of seizures. To prevent the recurrence of seizures, Pfizer, manufacturer of Lyrica, suggests terminating Lyrica therapy over a week by gradually decreasing dosages.
Nausea
Nausea and vomiting are common withdrawal symptoms of many prescription drugs, including Lyrica. Drugs.com explains that nausea and vomiting can occur during Lyrica discontinuation. In most cases, these withdrawal symptoms decrease and disappear within a week of ending Lyrica therapy.
Diarrhea
A 2006 article in the "American Family Physician" notes that diarrhea is a common withdrawal effect of stopping Lyrica. Gastrointestinal complaints, including upset stomach and diarrhea, are typical withdrawal side effects of many anticonvulsant and anti-pain drugs. Individuals concerned with the gastrointestinal side effects of Lyrica withdrawal should consult a physician as to how to best deal with such complications.
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