Long term side effects lyrica. Lyrica Side Effects: Understanding Common, Severe, and Long-Term Impacts

14.09.202317.06.2023 by alexxlab

What are the common side effects of Lyrica. How do severe side effects of Lyrica manifest. What long-term effects can Lyrica have on patients. How can patients manage Lyrica side effects effectively. What should patients know about Lyrica’s impact on sexual function. How does Lyrica affect weight and appetite. What precautions should be taken when using Lyrica for extended periods.

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Overview of Lyrica and Its Uses

Lyrica, also known by its generic name pregabalin, is a prescription medication primarily used to treat various conditions related to nerve pain and seizures. It belongs to a class of drugs called antiepileptics and is available in both brand-name and generic versions. Lyrica comes in two forms: oral capsules and oral solution.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Lyrica for the following conditions in adults:

Nerve pain from a spinal cord injury
Nerve pain after shingles (postherpetic neuralgia)
Fibromyalgia
Partial onset seizures (when used in combination with other seizure medications)
Diabetic nerve pain

In children aged 1 month and older, Lyrica is approved for treating partial onset seizures when used alongside other seizure medications.

Common Side Effects of Lyrica

While Lyrica can be an effective treatment for various conditions, it may cause several side effects. The most common side effects reported in clinical trials include:

Sleepiness
Swelling of the arms or legs (peripheral edema)
Dizziness
Dry mouth
Blurry vision

These side effects are generally mild and may subside as the body adjusts to the medication. However, if they persist or become bothersome, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider.

Managing Common Side Effects

To manage common side effects of Lyrica, patients can try the following strategies:

For sleepiness: Take Lyrica at bedtime or adjust daily activities to accommodate periods of drowsiness
For swelling: Elevate legs when sitting or lying down, and avoid standing for prolonged periods
For dizziness: Rise slowly from a sitting or lying position, and avoid sudden movements
For dry mouth: Stay hydrated, chew sugar-free gum, or use saliva substitutes
For blurry vision: Avoid driving or operating machinery until vision clears, and consult an eye doctor if persistent

Severe Side Effects and Precautions

While most side effects of Lyrica are mild, some patients may experience severe adverse reactions. These serious side effects, although rare, require immediate medical attention:

Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
Muscle problems, such as rhabdomyolysis
Low platelet levels (thrombocytopenia)
Severe allergic reactions

Symptoms of these severe side effects may include:

Worsening depression or feelings of hopelessness
Muscle cramps, aching, or weakness
Dark urine
Unusual bruising or bleeding
Difficulty breathing or swallowing
Swelling of the face, tongue, or throat

If any of these symptoms occur, patients should seek immediate medical help or call emergency services.

Long-Term Side Effects of Lyrica

While Lyrica is generally well-tolerated, long-term use may lead to certain side effects that develop over time. These may include:

Weight gain
Changes in sexual function
Cognitive impairment
Dependence and withdrawal symptoms

Patients using Lyrica for extended periods should be monitored regularly by their healthcare provider to assess the ongoing benefits and risks of the medication.

Managing Long-Term Side Effects

To address long-term side effects, healthcare providers may recommend:

Regular weight monitoring and lifestyle modifications
Adjusting dosage or considering alternative treatments
Cognitive assessments and potential dose reductions
Gradual tapering of the medication if discontinuation is necessary

Lyrica’s Impact on Sexual Function

Sexual side effects are a potential concern for some patients taking Lyrica. These effects may include:

Decreased libido (more common)
Increased libido (rare)
Erectile dysfunction
Difficulty achieving orgasm

Can Lyrica’s sexual side effects be managed? In many cases, yes. Strategies may include:

Open communication with healthcare providers about sexual concerns
Adjusting the dosage of Lyrica
Considering alternative medications
Exploring additional treatments for sexual dysfunction

It’s important to note that changes in sexual function may also be related to other side effects of Lyrica, such as weight gain or mood changes. A comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare provider can help determine the best approach to managing these issues.

Weight Gain and Appetite Changes

Weight gain is a well-documented side effect of Lyrica, particularly with long-term use. This weight increase may be due to several factors:

Increased appetite
Fluid retention
Reduced physical activity due to side effects like dizziness or sleepiness

How significant can weight gain be on Lyrica? Studies have shown that some patients may experience weight gain of 7% or more of their body weight. However, the extent of weight gain can vary significantly between individuals.

Managing Weight Gain on Lyrica

To combat weight gain associated with Lyrica use, patients can:

Monitor calorie intake and maintain a balanced diet
Engage in regular physical activity, as tolerated
Stay hydrated to help reduce fluid retention
Discuss potential dosage adjustments with their healthcare provider
Consider nutritional counseling or weight management programs

It’s crucial for patients to communicate any significant weight changes to their healthcare provider, as this may impact overall health and the effectiveness of the medication.

Lyrica’s Effects on Cognitive Function

Some patients taking Lyrica may experience cognitive side effects, which can include:

Difficulty with focus and concentration
Memory problems
Confusion
Slowed thinking

These cognitive effects may be more pronounced in older adults or those taking higher doses of the medication. How can patients manage cognitive side effects of Lyrica? Some strategies include:

Keeping a consistent sleep schedule to improve overall cognitive function
Using memory aids such as calendars, reminders, and note-taking
Engaging in mentally stimulating activities like puzzles or reading
Discussing dosage adjustments with a healthcare provider
Considering cognitive rehabilitation therapies if effects are significant

It’s important to note that cognitive side effects may improve over time as the body adjusts to the medication. However, if these effects persist or significantly impact daily life, patients should consult their healthcare provider for further evaluation and potential treatment modifications.

Lyrica and Mood Changes

While Lyrica is not primarily prescribed for mood disorders, it can have an impact on a patient’s emotional state. Some individuals may experience:

Mood swings
Anxiety
Depression
Euphoria (in rare cases)

These mood changes can be particularly concerning given the potential for suicidal thoughts or behaviors associated with antiepileptic medications like Lyrica. How should patients address mood changes while taking Lyrica? Here are some recommendations:

Keep a mood journal to track changes over time
Communicate openly with healthcare providers about any mood alterations
Practice stress-reduction techniques such as meditation or deep breathing exercises
Consider counseling or therapy to address ongoing mood issues
Be aware of warning signs for depression or suicidal thoughts and seek immediate help if they occur

Healthcare providers may need to adjust treatment plans or consider alternative medications if mood changes significantly impact a patient’s quality of life.

Lyrica’s Interaction with Other Medications

Lyrica can interact with various other medications, potentially altering its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Some notable interactions include:

Opioid pain medications
Benzodiazepines
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors
Thiazolidinedione antidiabetic agents
Alcohol and other central nervous system depressants

What should patients do to avoid potential drug interactions with Lyrica? Follow these guidelines:

Provide a complete list of all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to healthcare providers
Avoid starting new medications without consulting a doctor or pharmacist
Be cautious with alcohol consumption while taking Lyrica
Follow dosing instructions carefully, especially when taking multiple medications
Report any unusual side effects or changes in medication effectiveness to a healthcare provider promptly

By being proactive about potential drug interactions, patients can help ensure the safe and effective use of Lyrica alongside other medications.

Special Considerations for Elderly Patients Taking Lyrica

Elderly patients may be more susceptible to certain side effects of Lyrica and may require special considerations when using the medication. Some key points to consider include:

Increased risk of dizziness and falls
Greater sensitivity to cognitive side effects
Potential for more pronounced weight gain
Increased risk of drug interactions due to polypharmacy

How can healthcare providers optimize Lyrica treatment for elderly patients? Here are some strategies:

Start with lower doses and titrate slowly
Monitor renal function closely and adjust dosage accordingly
Conduct regular assessments of cognitive function and balance
Educate patients and caregivers about fall prevention strategies
Regularly review and optimize overall medication regimens

By taking these factors into account, healthcare providers can help ensure that elderly patients receive the benefits of Lyrica while minimizing potential risks and side effects.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Considerations with Lyrica

The use of Lyrica during pregnancy and breastfeeding requires careful consideration and consultation with healthcare providers. Current knowledge about Lyrica’s effects in these situations includes:

Potential risks to fetal development, particularly in the first trimester
Possible increased risk of major birth defects
Limited data on the effects of Lyrica in breast milk

What should women of childbearing age know about using Lyrica? Here are some key points:

Discuss pregnancy plans with healthcare providers before starting Lyrica
Use effective contraception while taking Lyrica if pregnancy is not desired
Inform healthcare providers immediately if pregnancy occurs while taking Lyrica
Weigh the potential benefits and risks of continuing Lyrica during pregnancy
Consider alternative treatments if breastfeeding, as Lyrica is present in breast milk

The decision to use Lyrica during pregnancy or while breastfeeding should be made on an individual basis, considering the specific medical needs of the patient and the potential risks to the fetus or infant.

Monitoring and Follow-up for Patients on Lyrica

Regular monitoring and follow-up are essential for patients taking Lyrica to ensure optimal treatment outcomes and minimize side effects. A comprehensive monitoring plan may include:

Regular assessment of pain relief or seizure control
Periodic blood tests to check kidney function and platelet levels
Monitoring of weight and body mass index
Evaluation of cognitive function and mood
Assessment of quality of life and functional status

How often should patients on Lyrica be monitored? The frequency of follow-up visits and assessments may vary based on individual factors, but generally include:

Initial follow-up within 4-6 weeks of starting treatment
Regular check-ups every 3-6 months for stable patients
More frequent monitoring for patients with comorbidities or those experiencing side effects
Annual comprehensive evaluations to assess overall treatment efficacy and safety

Patients should be encouraged to communicate any changes in their condition or new side effects promptly to their healthcare providers, allowing for timely adjustments to their treatment plan if necessary.

Alternatives to Lyrica and Comparative Side Effect Profiles

While Lyrica is effective for many patients, some may require alternative treatments due to side effects or lack of efficacy. Some alternatives to Lyrica include:

Gabapentin (Neurontin)
Duloxetine (Cymbalta)
Amitriptyline
Topiramate (Topamax)
Non-pharmacological treatments such as physical therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy

How do the side effect profiles of these alternatives compare to Lyrica? Here’s a brief overview:

Gabapentin: Similar side effects to Lyrica but may cause less weight gain
Duloxetine: May cause nausea and sexual dysfunction but less likely to cause weight gain
Amitriptyline: Can cause dry mouth, constipation, and drowsiness; may have more anticholinergic side effects
Topiramate: May cause cognitive side effects and weight loss rather than weight gain
Non-pharmacological treatments: Generally have fewer systemic side effects but may require more time and effort to see results

The choice of alternative treatments should be based on individual patient factors, including the specific condition being treated, comorbidities, and personal preferences. Healthcare providers can help patients weigh the potential benefits and risks of each option to determine the most appropriate treatment approach.

Side effects and how to manage them

Lyrica (pregabalin) is a prescription drug that’s prescribed to treat nerve pain, fibromyalgia, and seizures in certain situations. Lyrica can cause side effects that range from mild to serious. Examples include sexual side effects and weight gain.

Lyrica is prescribed to adults to treat:

nerve pain from a spinal cord injury
nerve pain after shingles
fibromyalgia
partial onset seizures, when taken in combination with other seizure medications
diabetic nerve pain

Lyrica belongs to a drug class called antiepileptics. The drug is available in a generic version. Lyrica is available in these forms:

oral capsule
oral solution

Read on to learn about potential common, mild, and serious side effects of Lyrica. For a general overview of the drug, including details about its uses, see this article.

Note: Lyrica CR is another brand-name form of pregabalin (Lyrica’s active drug). This version comes as an oral tablet. Lyrica CR isn’t prescribed for all of the same conditions as Lyrica, and it works differently than Lyrica. This article focuses on side effects of Lyrica, not of Lyrica CR. For details about Lyrica CR, including its side effects, you can talk with your doctor.

Lyrica can cause certain side effects, some of which are more common than others. These side effects may be temporary, lasting a few days to weeks. However, if the side effects last longer than that, bother you, or become severe, be sure to talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

These are just a few of the more common side effects reported by people who took Lyrica in clinical trials:

sleepiness
swelling of the arms or legs
dizziness*
dry mouth*
blurry vision*

* For more information about this side effect, see “Side effect specifics” below.

Mild side effects can occur with Lyrica treatment. This list doesn’t include all possible mild side effects of the drug. For more information, you can refer to Lyrica’s prescribing information.

Mild side effects that have been reported with Lyrica include:

sleepiness
swelling of the arms or legs
sexual side effects
difficulty with focus, attention, or concentration
dizziness*
dry mouth*
blurry vision*
weight gain*
mild allergic reaction*

Side effects of Lyrica may differ based on which condition you’re taking the drug to treat. For example, if you’re taking Lyrica for nerve pain, you may have slightly different side effects than someone taking Lyrica for seizure treatment. However, overall, most side effects of Lyrica are similar.

These side effects may be temporary, lasting a few days to weeks. However, if the side effects last longer than that, bother you, or become severe, be sure to talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Note: After the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves a drug, it tracks and reviews side effects of the medication. If you develop a side effect while taking Lyrica and want to tell the FDA about it, visit MedWatch.

* For more information about this side effect, see “Side effect specifics” below.

Most side effects of Lyrica are mild. However, Lyrica may cause serious side effects. The list below may not include all possible serious side effects of the drug. For more information, you can refer to Lyrica’s prescribing information.

If you develop serious side effects while taking Lyrica, call your doctor right away. If the side effects seem life threatening or you think you’re having a medical emergency, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number.

Serious side effects that have been reported and their symptoms include:

Suicidal thoughts or behaviors. Symptoms can include:
- worsening depression
- feeling hopeless
- not wanting to participate in activities that used to be enjoyable
Muscle problems, such as rhabdomyolysis. Symptoms can include:
- muscle cramps or aching
- weakness
- dark urine
Low platelet levels (thrombocytopenia). Symptoms can include:
- bruising easier than usual
- nosebleeds
- bleeding longer than usual from a cut or wound
Severe allergic reaction.*

* For more information about this side effect, see “Side effect specifics” below.

It’s possible for children taking Lyrica to experience similar side effects to those in adults. However, additional side effects reported in children included increased appetite. Sleepiness and weight gain were also common side effects reported in children taking Lyrica.

Note that the only condition Lyrica is approved to treat in children is partial onset seizures in those ages 1 month and older.

If you’re concerned about the side effects of Lyrica in your child, talk with your child’s doctor.

It’s possible for Lyrica to cause sexual side effects. In clinical trials, decreased libido, or lower sex drive than usual, was commonly reported. An increased libido was also reported, although this side effect was rare.

It’s also possible that a change in your libido may be due to other side effects of Lyrica. For example, Lyrica can cause you to feel sleepy or dizzy. This may cause a decrease in your libido as well.

If you have concerns about sexual side effects during treatment with Lyrica, talk with your doctor.

Lyrica may cause several side effects. Here are some frequently asked questions about the drug’s side effects and their answers.

Do the side effects of Lyrica vary based on which strength I take, such as 25 mg, 50 mg, or 75 mg?

It’s possible that you may be at an increased risk of side effects if you take a higher dose of Lyrica. This is because taking a higher dose of medication exposes your body to more drug. And having more drug in your body can increase the possibility of side effects.

Lyrica is available in the following strengths:

25 milligrams (mg)
50 mg
75 mg
100 mg
150 mg
200 mg
225 mg
300 mg

Lyrica also comes as an oral solution that’s available in one strength: 20 mg of the drug per milliliter of liquid.

So, it’s possible that people taking a dose of 25 mg may have less side effects than someone taking a 200 mg dose. If you experience side effects during your treatment with Lyrica, talk with your doctor.

Is there a higher risk of side effects in older adults taking Lyrica?

In most cases, older adults (age 65 years or older) will experience the same risk of side effects as younger adults. In clinical trials, there weren’t any differences in the safety or effectiveness of Lyrica in elderly or older adults, compared to younger adults.

However, in older adults taking Lyrica for fibromyalgia, the following side effects were reported more often than in younger adults:

dizziness
blurry vision
difficulty with balance or coordination
body tremors
confusion
sleepiness

If you’re an older adult and you’re concerned about the side effects from Lyrica, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. They can discuss your risk of side effects and what to watch out for.

Can Lyrica cause long-term side effects?

It’s possible for Lyrica to cause long-term side effects or even permanent side effects. However, long-term side effects from this medication are not common.

Some examples of long-term side effects are depression or suicidal thoughts or behaviors. Rhabdomyolysis (which can cause damage to your organs, such as kidneys) can also lead to long-term side effects.

If you’re concerned about long-term side effects of Lyrica, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. They can discuss your risk of side effects with you and the best ways to treat them. In some cases, if you’re aware of the symptoms of certain side effects and treat them right away, they may not be long-term.

Are there any dangers of taking Lyrica?

Yes, there are some dangers of taking Lyrica. For example, this medication can cause sleepiness, dizziness, and blurry vision. This can impact your everyday life, including your ability to drive a car or other machinery. Due to these possible risks, it’s not recommended to drive a car, work with machines, or perform other activities until you know how the drug may affect you.

In addition, Lyrica can cause side effects, some of which can be dangerous. For example, the drug can increase your risk of depression or suicidal thoughts or behaviors. It can also increase your risk of rhabdomyolysis, which can cause long-term effects.

Lyrica is also a controlled substance. Controlled substances are regulated by the government because of their risk of misuse or dependence. Misuse of a drug means taking it in a way that’s different than how it was prescribed to you. Drug dependence can occur when your body needs a medication to function as usual. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have a history of drug or alcohol misuse or dependence.

However, it’s important to note that Lyrica is FDA approved and has been shown to be a safe and effective treatment option for the conditions that it was approved for. If you’re concerned about the dangers of taking Lyrica, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Are there side effects of switching from gabapentin to Lyrica?

Typically, you shouldn’t experience side effects from switching from gabapentin to Lyrica. However, abruptly stopping gabapentin may make symptoms worse. In rare cases, it may lead to new or worsening seizures.

It’s possible for your doctor to recommend switching from gabapentin to Lyrica. Both Neurontin (gabapentin) and Lyrica (pregabalin) are FDA approved to treat certain seizure conditions and conditions causing nerve pain. For example, if you’re taking gabapentin and it isn’t working to manage your nerve pain or your seizures, your doctor may recommend trying Lyrica instead.

To avoid abruptly stopping or switching your medication, your doctor may develop a plan to slowly take you off gabapentin.

It’s important to note that you should never switch medications on your own. Only stop treatment with gabapentin and switch to Lyrica if recommended by your doctor. They can advise you on the best way for you to switch medications.

If you have additional questions about switching from gabapentin to Lyrica, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Learn more about some of the side effects that Lyrica may cause. To find out how often side effects occurred in clinical trials, see the prescribing information for Lyrica.

Weight gain

You may experience weight gain during your treatment with Lyrica. Weight gain was a common side effect that people taking Lyrica reported in clinical trials.

You may be at an increased risk of weight gain if you’re taking a higher dose of Lyrica for a longer period of time. However, it’s important to note that short-term trials didn’t show an increase in blood pressure or blood sugar in people who gained weight during Lyrica treatment. And, it’s not known what effects Lyrica weight gain may have long-term.

One of the side effects of Lyrica is swelling of the arms or legs. This may increase your risk of weight gain.

In addition, children and some adults taking Lyrica may experience an increase in appetite. This appetite increase may also lead to weight gain.

What you can do

If you experience unexpected weight gain during treatment with Lyrica, talk with your doctor. They can help you determine ways to reverse weight gain or how to manage your weight.

Dizziness

It’s possible to experience dizziness from taking Lyrica. Dizziness was a common side effect reported in clinical trials of Lyrica. Symptoms of dizziness may include lightheadedness, loss of balance, or feeling like you’re spinning.

What you can do

If you experience dizziness during your treatment with Lyrica, tell your doctor. It’s not recommended to drive a car, work with machines, or perform other activities that may be dangerous while you’re taking Lyrica until you know how the drug may affect you. Your doctor can help determine when it may be safe for you to perform any of these activities after starting Lyrica.

Your doctor may also be able to help treat your dizziness. In some cases, they may recommend a different treatment option for you.

Dry mouth

It’s possible to experience a dry mouth from taking Lyrica. Dry mouth was one of the most common side effects reported in clinical trials of Lyrica. Symptoms of dry mouth may include feeling thirsty, dry tongue, or sores or cracks at the corners of your mouth or on your lips.

What you can do

Tell your doctor if you experience dry mouth during treatment with Lyrica. They may recommend certain treatments for your dry mouth, such as:

decreasing caffeine
chewing gum or candy to help your saliva
sipping water
stopping smoking or chewing tobacco
using an over-the-counter mouthwash to moisten your mouth

Your doctor can help determine the best ways to treat your dry mouth.

Blurry vision

You may experience blurry vision from taking Lyrica. Blurry vision was one of the most common side effects that people taking Lyrica reported in clinical trials.

What you can do

If you notice any changes in your vision during your treatment with Lyrica, including blurry vision, talk with your doctor. They may recommend having your vision checked by an eye doctor. If your blurry vision is severe or bothersome, your doctor may recommend a different treatment option for you.

Allergic reaction

As with most drugs, Lyrica can cause an allergic reaction in some people.

Symptoms can be mild or serious and can include:

skin rash
itching
flushing
swelling under your skin, typically in your eyelids, lips, hands, or feet (angioedema)
swelling of your mouth, tongue, or throat, which can make it hard to breathe

What you can do

For mild symptoms of an allergic reaction, call your doctor right away. They may recommend ways to ease your symptoms and determine whether you should keep taking Lyrica. However, if your symptoms are serious and you think you’re having a medical emergency, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number.

Suicide prevention

If you know someone at immediate risk of self-harm, suicide, or hurting another person:

Ask the tough question: “Are you considering suicide?”
Listen to the person without judgment.
Call 911 or the local emergency number, or text TALK to 741741 to communicate with a trained crisis counselor.
Stay with the person until professional help arrives.
Try to remove any weapons, medications, or other potentially harmful objects.

If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, a prevention hotline can help. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day at 988. During a crisis, people who are hard of hearing can use their preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988.

Click here for more links and local resources.

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Be sure to talk with your doctor about your health history before you take Lyrica. This drug may not be the right treatment for you if you have certain medical conditions or other factors that affect your health. These are considered drug-condition or drug-factor interactions. The conditions and factors to consider include:

Depression, mood problems or suicidal thoughts or behaviors. It’s possible for Lyrica to increase your risk of depression, mood problems, or suicidal thoughts or behaviors. And, if you have a history of these conditions, you may be at an increased risk of worsening symptoms. Your doctor can help determine if Lyrica is a safe treatment option for you.

Bleeding conditions. It’s possible for Lyrica to cause low platelet levels, which can increase your risk of bleeding. If you have any bleeding conditions, you may be at an even higher risk of these side effects. Talk with your doctor to determine if Lyrica may be a safe treatment option for you.

Kidney problems. Tell your doctor about any kidney problems that you have, including if you’re on dialysis, before starting Lyrica. This medication is removed from your body by your kidneys. And, if they aren’t working properly, you may be exposed to too much Lyrica, which can increase your risk of side effects. Your doctor may recommend a lower dose of Lyrica if you have kidney problems.

Breathing problems. Taking Lyrica may increase your risk of respiratory depression, or difficulty breathing. If you have a breathing problem that may already cause difficulty breathing, taking Lyrica may make your condition worse. In some cases, this can be very severe or even life-threatening. If you have any breathing problems, talk with your doctor. They can help determine if it’s safe for you to take Lyrica.

Heart problems. If you have any heart problems, tell your doctor before taking Lyrica. This medication can cause swelling of the arms or legs. If you have certain heart conditions, such as heart failure, this swelling may cause your heart condition to worsen. Be sure to tell your doctor about any heart problems you have before starting Lyrica. They can determine if this medication is safe for you.

Allergic reaction. If you’ve had an allergic reaction to Lyrica or any of its ingredients, your doctor will likely not prescribe Lyrica. Ask your doctor what other medications may be better options for you.

History of drug or alcohol misuse. Tell your doctor if you have a history of drug or alcohol misuse. Lyrica is a controlled medication, which may cause misuse or dependence. If you have a history of drug or alcohol misuse, taking Lyrica may increase your risk. Your doctor can help determine if Lyrica is a safe treatment option for you.

Angioedema. It’s possible for Lyrica to cause angioedema, which is swelling of your face, neck, or other areas of your body. Angioedema can be severe or even life-threatening. If you have a history of angioedema, tell your doctor before taking Lyrica. It’s possible that you may be at an increased risk of this side effect.

Alcohol with Lyrica

You should not drink alcohol while taking Lyrica. Alcohol can increase your risk of side effects from Lyrica, such as dizziness, sleepiness, and blurry vision.

If you drink alcohol, talk with your doctor if you have questions about drinking alcohol during your treatment with Lyrica.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding while taking Lyrica

Here’s some information about pregnancy and breastfeeding while taking Lyrica.

Pregnancy. It’s not known if Lyrica is safe to take during pregnancy. At this time, there isn’t enough information on the safety of Lyrica during pregnancy to determine if the drug is safe.

Animal studies show that there may be an increased risk of problems with fetal development (commonly known as birth defects) in animals who took Lyrica during pregnancy. In addition, there may be an increased risk of pregnancy loss. However, it’s important to note that animal studies don’t always indicate what may happen in humans.

If you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor before taking Lyrica.

Lyrica pregnancy registry

There’s a pregnancy registry available for people who become pregnant while taking Lyrica. A pregnancy registry is a collection of data to determine if a drug may be safe to take during pregnancy. The purpose of the registry is to help determine what effects the drug may have if it’s taken during pregnancy.

To sign up for the registry, call 888-233-2334 or visit the registry website.

Breastfeeding. It’s not recommended to breastfeed while taking Lyrica. This medication likely passes into breast milk. It’s not known what effects Lyrica may have on a child who is breastfed.

If you’re breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, talk with your doctor before taking Lyrica. They can discuss your treatment options and the best way to feed your child.

It’s possible for Lyrica to cause drug misuse. Misusing a drug means taking it in a way other than how it was prescribed to you. Lyrica is a controlled substance because it has the possibility to cause misuse or dependence. (With dependence, your body needs the drug to feel like you usually do.)

Misusing a drug can increase your risk of overdose. Lyrica overdose symptoms can be life threatening and may include:

depression or anxiety
decreased consciousness
confusion
agitation
restlessness
seizures
heart problems

If you’re having trouble taking Lyrica as prescribed or if you have concerns about Lyrica misuse, talk with your doctor. They can help find a different treatment option for your condition and recommend ways to avoid misuse.

It’s possible to experience side effects from taking Lyrica. In most cases, these side effects will be mild. However, it’s possible for severe side effects to occur.

If you’d like to learn more about Lyrica, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. They can help answer any questions you have about side effects from taking the drug.

Besides talking with your doctor, you can do some research on your own. These articles might help:

More information about Lyrica. For details about other aspects of Lyrica, refer to this article.
Drug comparison. To learn how Lyrica compares with gabapentin, read this article.
Dosage. For information about the dosage of Lyrica, view this article.
Interactions. For details about Lyrica’s interactions, see this article.
A look at your condition. For details about your condition, see our:
diabetes hub
epilepsy and seizures hub
list of fibromyalgia articles
list of shingles articles
list of neurology and neuroscience articles

Disclaimer: Medical News Today has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.

Side effects and how to manage them

Lyrica is prescribed to adults to treat:

nerve pain from a spinal cord injury
nerve pain after shingles
fibromyalgia
partial onset seizures, when taken in combination with other seizure medications
diabetic nerve pain

Lyrica belongs to a drug class called antiepileptics. The drug is available in a generic version. Lyrica is available in these forms:

oral capsule
oral solution

Read on to learn about potential common, mild, and serious side effects of Lyrica. For a general overview of the drug, including details about its uses, see this article.

These are just a few of the more common side effects reported by people who took Lyrica in clinical trials:

sleepiness
swelling of the arms or legs
dizziness*
dry mouth*
blurry vision*

* For more information about this side effect, see “Side effect specifics” below.

Mild side effects can occur with Lyrica treatment. This list doesn’t include all possible mild side effects of the drug. For more information, you can refer to Lyrica’s prescribing information.

Mild side effects that have been reported with Lyrica include:

sleepiness
swelling of the arms or legs
sexual side effects
difficulty with focus, attention, or concentration
dizziness*
dry mouth*
blurry vision*
weight gain*
mild allergic reaction*

These side effects may be temporary, lasting a few days to weeks. However, if the side effects last longer than that, bother you, or become severe, be sure to talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

* For more information about this side effect, see “Side effect specifics” below.

Serious side effects that have been reported and their symptoms include:

Suicidal thoughts or behaviors. Symptoms can include:
worsening depression
feeling hopeless
not wanting to participate in activities that used to be enjoyable
Muscle problems, such as rhabdomyolysis. Symptoms can include:
muscle cramps or aching
weakness
dark urine
Low platelet levels (thrombocytopenia). Symptoms can include:
bruising easier than usual
nosebleeds
bleeding longer than usual from a cut or wound
Severe allergic reaction.*

* For more information about this side effect, see “Side effect specifics” below.

Note that the only condition Lyrica is approved to treat in children is partial onset seizures in those ages 1 month and older.

If you’re concerned about the side effects of Lyrica in your child, talk with your child’s doctor.

If you have concerns about sexual side effects during treatment with Lyrica, talk with your doctor.

Lyrica may cause several side effects. Here are some frequently asked questions about the drug’s side effects and their answers.

Do the side effects of Lyrica vary based on which strength I take, such as 25 mg, 50 mg, or 75 mg?

Lyrica is available in the following strengths:

25 milligrams (mg)
50 mg
75 mg
100 mg
150 mg
200 mg
225 mg
300 mg

Lyrica also comes as an oral solution that’s available in one strength: 20 mg of the drug per milliliter of liquid.

Is there a higher risk of side effects in older adults taking Lyrica?

However, in older adults taking Lyrica for fibromyalgia, the following side effects were reported more often than in younger adults:

dizziness
blurry vision
difficulty with balance or coordination
body tremors
confusion
sleepiness

If you’re an older adult and you’re concerned about the side effects from Lyrica, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. They can discuss your risk of side effects and what to watch out for.