If you have epilepsy, you may be familiar with these commonly prescribed anticonvulsants: valproic acid, zonisamide, carbamazepine and topiramate. In many cases, it's a matter of trial and error before the right medication is found to control your seizures. After multiple attempts, Lyrica may be the drug for you. However this medication is accompanied with its own side effects, all of which you should be aware of.
Most Commonly Reported
Lyrica, as with any other medication, has side effects that are more common than others. These side effects are typically mild and subside after a short time. They include uncontrollable shaking, headaches, dry mouth, problems with balance and dizziness. You may also experience drowsiness and weight gain, along with increased infections and accidental injuries, which may be due to your loss of balance.
Less Common Side Effects
While the following side effects of Lyrica are not reported as often, they are still considered common according to eMedTV.com. These include loss of memory, weakness, twitching, a spinning sensation that is also known as vertigo, vomiting, and bladder leakage or incontinence. You may also experience body aches, chills, muscle spasms and problems concentrating. Additionally you could suffer from back or joint pain, an increased appetite or low blood sugar.
Sever Side Effects
Certain side effects deem it necessary for you call to your doctor immediately. According to Drugs.com, if your symptoms become worse, or you begin suffering from changes in your mood or behavior, have suicidal thoughts or become extremely hostile, agitated or hyperactive, you should contact your doctor right away. Additional side effects warranting immediate contact with your physician include any type of muscle pain or weakness that is accompanied by a fever; rapid weight gain accompanied by swelling of your hands, feet or legs; and bruising or bleeding easily.
Rare But Possible
Rare side effects are reported in less than 1 percent of patients taking Lyrica; however, these side effects may still occur and should still be monitored. These side effects include but are not limited to stiffness of the neck, anemia, dry eyes, menstrual changes in women, hair loss, increased sensitivity to the sun and the development of kidney stones.
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