Lyrica (pregabalin) is a prescription medication that is FDA-approved to treat diabetic nerve pain, pain after having shingles, fibromyalgia and partial onset seizures in adults with epilepsy who already take one or more drugs to control seizures. Lyrica 600 milligrams (MG) is currently the highest dose of the drug available. This dose may be particularly helpful for controlling seizures and is not approved for fibromyalgia. Lyrica 600 MG causes many of the same side effects as Lyrica at lower doses; however, some of these side effects may be more frequent and severe in nature.
Common Dose-Related Side Effects
Lyrica 600 milligrams can cause a number of common dose-related side effects--those that occur with more frequency or severity at higher doses of Lyrica than at lower doses. In clinical trials with adults with partial onset seizures who were taking Lyrica 600 mg, symptoms such as accidental injury, pain, increased appetite, dry mouth, constipation, weight gain, peripheral edema (swelling of the limbs), dizziness, tremor or shaking, twitching, lack of coordination and unsteadiness (ataxia), drowsiness, abnormal gait and mental confusion have been observed. Visual disturbances are also common, with some patients reporting blurred vision or double vision (diplopia).
People taking Lyrica 600 mg have also reported cognitive problems that include slowed thinking, difficulties concentrating and maintaining attention and language or speech deficiencies.
Other common side effects that have been observed independent of dosage include vertigo, dry mouth, constipation, vomiting, flatulence (gas), abdominal distension (bloating), fatigue, chest pain, sinusitis, fluid retention, back pain, and psychiatric symptoms such as anxiety, depression, euphoria or confused states.
Rare Side Effects
A number of rare side effects of Lyrica 600 mg have also been identified, including sensitivity to the sun, anemia, hiccups, dry skin and eyes, taste changes, menstrual problems, kidney stones, canker sores and hair loss. Symptoms of a hangover feeling have also been reported.
Serious Side Effects
Lyrica can cause serious or life-threatening allergic reactions. Symptoms such as swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, lips, gums or neck, trouble breathing, hives or blisters anywhere on the body are signs of a medical emergency and require immediate care.
Lyrica 600 mg may also cause the development of suicidal thoughts or behaviors. Individuals who are thinking about hurting themselves, or who experience new or worsening symptoms of anxiety, depression, irritability, panic attacks, violence or aggressive tendencies, agitation, restlessness, impulsivity, noticeable increases in activity or talking (mania) or other changes in mood are behavior should contact their healthcare provider right away.
Lyrica may also cause dependence and withdrawal symptoms. Individuals are advised not to stop taking Lyrica altogether before consulting a physician because symptoms such as headaches, nausea, diarrhea and sleep problems can occur.
Other rare but serious side effects of Lyrica 600 mg include congestive heart failure (including swelling of the hands, legs and feet and difficulty breathing), arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat), bruising or bleeding and unexplained muscle weakness accompanied by fever and fatigue.
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