Long term side effects of pregabalin: Pregabalin Side Effects: Common, Severe, Long Term
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.*
Symptoms can include:* 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 (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.*
Symptoms can include:* 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./what-are-the-potential-risks-of-fertility-drugs-1960190_v2-08dd6a24eda348d28b0a176ac1baa180.png)
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.
Pregabalin in the treatment of spondylogenic radiculopathy | Amelin A.V.
Back pain is one of the most common forms of chronic pain [1] with predominant localization in the lumbar region (15–45%) [2–4] and neck (13–24%) [5–7]. Traditionally, back pain is considered as nociceptive, resulting from the excitation of nociceptors, widely represented in the vertebral bodies, facet joints, intervertebral discs, dura mater, ligaments, muscles. The neuropathic mechanism of pain is revealed in 10–19% of patients with back pain [8–10] and is associated with damage and irritation of the spinal cord, fibers of the spinal root due to their compression, inflammation, edema, ischemia, demyelination, and axonal degeneration.
An important role in the formation of neuropathic pain is played by changes in the neurophysiological characteristics of nerve fibers, neurons of the spinal ganglia and dorsal horns of the spinal cord.
The main causes of radiculopathy are spinal stenosis, herniated disc, spondylosis with the formation of osteophytes, hypertrophy of the articular facets, ligaments, less often herpes zoster, diabetes mellitus, neurinomas or other causes. It is known that the intensity of pain does not correlate with the degree of disc protrusion or the severity of root compression. The presence of the neuropathic component of pain significantly exacerbates the course of back pain syndrome, contributes to its chronicity and rapid maladaptation of patients, impairs their quality of life, increases the cost of treatment [10–12], contributes to the development of insomnia, anxiety, and depression [13–15]. For many physicians, the management of patients with chronic neuropathic pain remains a challenge [16].
Traditionally, for the treatment of back pain, most physicians use non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) [10-12], which relieve nociceptive pain well, but are ineffective in neuropathic pain that occurs with radiculopathies. The wrong choice of tactics for the treatment of patients with spondylogenic radiculopathies contributes to a decrease in its effectiveness and a significant increase in duration [18–20]. The results of recent systematic reviews indicate that among the antidepressants, opioids and anticonvulsants used for the treatment of neuropathic pain, gabapentin and pregabalin have the most favorable efficacy/tolerability ratio, which makes them currently the first choice drugs for the treatment of pain with a neuropathic component [16]. Pregabalin is a modern anticonvulsant and has proven to be an effective drug for the treatment of any neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia, anxiety and seizures. It is an analogue of g-aminobutyric acid with high selectivity for the α-2-delta subunit of the voltage-gated calcium channel of the neuron.
In placebo-controlled clinical trials, pregabalin demonstrated not only high analgesic activity, but also efficacy against comorbid affective disorders and insomnia in patients with peripheral diabetic polyneuropathy [23–26], postherpetic neuralgia [27–29], spinal central neuropathic pain [30]. In real world clinical practice, pregabalin efficacy was studied in patients with cervical and lumbar radiculopathy [49]. This study showed that more than 2-fold reduction in pain was observed in 63% of patients treated with pregabalin monotherapy and in 56% of patients treated with pregabalin as an adjunct to conventional therapy, which included NSAIDs, gabapentin, tranquilizers, amitriptyline, and fentanyl [49] (Fig. 1).
A domestic study also demonstrated the high efficacy of pregabalin in the treatment of neuropathic pain associated with spondylogenic lumbosacral radiculopathies [50]. According to the authors, in some patients, even with obvious signs of radiculopathy, the neuropathic component is not dominant in the structure of the pain syndrome, and therefore they recommend the mandatory use of the DN-4 questionnaire for the differential diagnosis of nociceptive and neuropathic pain in the structure of spondylogenic pain syndrome.
These data support previous randomized controlled trials in which pregabalin was effective in 39 patients.-48% of patients with diabetic polyneuropathy [23–26], 28–50% with postherpetic neuralgia (27–29%), and 22% of patients with central neuropathic pain associated with spinal cord injury [30]. It was previously shown that the correction of affective disorders and insomnia associated with neuropathic pain can significantly reduce both direct and indirect costs of treating patients with neuropathic pain and improve their quality of life [47]. Given the frequent co-occurrence of chronic pain with the above disorders, the role of pregabalin in their management appears to be highly beneficial, especially given the evidence that opioids, which are effective in the treatment of neuropathic pain [16, 21], do not improve long-term emotional distress and quality of life. life of patients [45, 46], and tricyclic antidepressants have a number of psychotropic side effects and anticholinergic effects, which significantly limit their use in a large category of patients.
One of the previous studies showed a positive effect of pregabalin on comorbid sleep disorders, depression and anxiety in patients with cervical and lumbosacral radiculopathy [49].
Of particular interest is the discussion of the effective average daily dose of pregabalin for the treatment of neuropathic pain. In randomized clinical trials using a flexible dosing regimen, it was found that the effective therapeutic range of pregabalin for various neuropathic pain syndromes ranges from 150 to 600 mg / day. [26]. However, a number of studies conducted in real clinical practice have demonstrated high analgesic activity of pregabalin at lower daily doses [20, 43]. For example, in patients with lumbar and cervical radiculopathy, to reduce pain by 2 times or more, compared with the initial period, it took an average of 190 mg of pregabalin per day, while to obtain a similar result in the treatment of postherpetic neuralgia and diabetic polyneuropathy, a dose of almost 2 times more was required [26].
Whether lower doses of pregabalin can be recommended for actual clinical practice remains unclear.
Currently, the most effective and safe is the individual selection of the dose of pregabalin. The recent appearance of a dosage form containing 25 mg of the drug makes it possible to use a very flexible dosing regimen. It is important to understand that one should not rush to negative assessment of the effectiveness of the treatment of neuropathic pain and refuse the use of pregabalin, unless its dose has been increased to the individually maximum and well tolerated. A guideline can be a dose of 150-300 mg / day, indicated in the annotation for the use of the drug. In cases of insufficient efficacy and good tolerability of the drug, a second agent from another class can be added to it. It has been shown that the combined use of gabapentin and pregabalin with antidepressants significantly increases the effectiveness of the treatment of patients with chronic pain and depression [16, 21].
The combined use of an anticonvulsant and an antidepressant in a number of patients reduces the average daily dose of each of them and the risk of side effects [21].
Of particular interest for discussion is the question of the possibility and expediency of combining an anticonvulsant and NSAIDs in patients with spondylogenic back pain and radiculopathy. The theoretical validity of this combination is beyond doubt, since the pathogenesis of most back pain syndromes suggests the presence of both nociceptive and neuropathic pain mechanisms. There is evidence that the combined use of pregabalin and celecoxib was more effective than either drug alone in patients with chronic back pain [48]. In this study, the combination of pregabalin and celecoxib reduced the intensity of chronic back pain by 38.2%, while pregabalin monotherapy reduced pain by 10.4% and celecoxib by 12.4%. The effectiveness of back pain treatment largely depended on the presence of the neuropathic pain component in the clinical picture, which was identified and assessed using the LANSS diagnostic questionnaire./Lamictal-and-anxiety-380251-0d0627488319430eae9839a7787ce0f1.png)
For more details: si-sv.com In patients with severe neuropathic pain component (LANSS >12 points), the maximum reduction in pain compared with the baseline period (by 51.8%) was achieved only when using the combination of pregabalin and celecoxib (Fig. 2).
Thus, there is now evidence that pregabalin monotherapy, and especially its combination with NSAIDs, is effective for the treatment of patients with chronic back pain and radiculopathy. The inclusion of pregabalin in the treatment regimen for patients with this pathology not only contributes to more effective pain relief, but also reduces the symptoms of anxiety and insomnia that often accompany chronic pain.
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💊 Ingredients of Pregabalin ✅ Use of Pregabalin Keep Search for analogues Interaction ⚠️ The registration certificate for this product expired on 11/11/21 Description of the active ingredients of the preparation pregabalin The scientific information provided is general and cannot be used to make decisions. Update date: 2020.05.14 Marketing authorization holder: GEROPHARM LLC Manufactured:DONGBANG FUTURE TECH & LIFE Co.,Ltd (Republic of Korea) ATX code: N03AX16 (Pregabalin) Active substance: Rec.INN WHO registered Dosage form
Release form, packaging and composition |
150 mg: 14, 28 or 56 pcs.
With repeated use, the equilibrium state is reached after 24-48 hours. When used after a meal C max decreases by approximately 25-30%, and the time to reach C max increases to approximately 2.5 hours. However, food intake does not have a clinically significant effect on the total absorption of pregabalin.
| F41.1 | Generalized anxiety disorder |
| G40 | Epilepsy |
G53. 0 | Neuralgia after herpes zoster (B02.2) |
| G63.2 | Diabetic polyneuropathy |
| M79.7 | Fibromyalgia (including fibromyositis, fibrositis) |
| R52.2 | Other persistent pain (chronic) |
Dosage regimen
The method of administration and dosing regimen of a particular drug depends on its form of release and other factors. The optimal dosage regimen is determined by the doctor. Compliance of the dosage form of a particular drug with indications for use and dosing regimen should be strictly observed.
Take orally, regardless of food intake, in a daily dose of 150 to 600 mg in 2 or 3 doses.
If treatment must be discontinued, it is recommended that this be done gradually over a period of at least 1 week.
In patients with impaired renal function , the dose is selected individually, taking into account QC.
In patients with impaired liver function, dose adjustment is not required.
Elderly patients over 65 years of age may require a dose reduction of pregabalin due to decreased renal function.
If a dose of pregabalin is missed, the next dose should be taken as soon as possible, but the missed dose should not be taken if the next dose is about to be taken.
Side effects
From the side of the psyche: often – euphoria, confusion, decreased libido, irritability, insomnia, disorientation; infrequently – depersonalization, anorgasmia, anxiety, depression, agitation, mood lability, depressed mood, difficulty in choosing words, hallucinations, unusual dreams, increased libido, panic attacks, apathy, increased insomnia; rarely – disinhibition, high spirits.
From the side of the nervous system: very often – dizziness, drowsiness; often – ataxia, impaired attention, impaired coordination, memory impairment, tremor, dysarthria, paresthesia, imbalance, amnesia, sedation, lethargy; infrequently – cognitive disorders, hypesthesia, nystagmus, speech disturbance, myoclonic convulsions, weakening of reflexes, dyskinesia, psychomotor agitation, postural dizziness, hyperesthesia, loss of taste sensations, burning sensation on the mucous membranes and skin, intentional tremor, stupor, fainting; rarely – hypokinesia, parosmia, dysgraphia; frequency unknown – headache.
From the senses: often – dizziness, blurred vision, diplopia; infrequently – hyperacusis, narrowing of the visual fields, decreased visual acuity, eye pain, asthenopia, dry eyes, swelling of the eyes, increased lacrimation; rarely – flashing sparks before the eyes, eye irritation, mydriasis, oscillopsia (subjective sensation of fluctuation of the objects in question), impaired perception of depth of vision, loss of peripheral vision, strabismus, increased brightness of visual perception; frequency unknown – keratitis.
From the side of metabolism: often – increased appetite, weight gain; infrequently – anorexia, hypoglycemia; rarely – weight loss.
From the side of the cardiovascular system: infrequently – tachycardia, AV block I degree, hot flashes, lowering blood pressure, cold extremities, increased blood pressure; rarely – sinus tachycardia, sinus arrhythmia, sinus bradycardia; the frequency is unknown – chronic heart failure, prolongation of the QT interval.
From the respiratory system: infrequently – shortness of breath, cough, dryness of the nasal mucosa, nasopharyngitis; rarely – nasal congestion, nosebleeds, rhinitis, snoring, tightness in the throat; infrequently – pulmonary edema.
From the digestive system: often – dry mouth, constipation, vomiting, flatulence, bloating; infrequently – increased salivation, gastroesophageal reflux, hypoesthesia of the oral mucosa; rarely – ascites, dysphagia, pancreatitis; frequency unknown – swelling of the tongue, nausea, diarrhea.
From the musculoskeletal system: infrequently – muscle twitching, joint swelling, muscle spasms, myalgia, arthralgia, back pain, pain in the extremities, muscle stiffness; rarely – spasm of the cervical muscles, neck pain, rhabdomyolysis.
From the urinary system: infrequently – dysuria, urinary incontinence; rarely – oliguria, renal failure.
From the reproductive system: often – erectile dysfunction; infrequently – delayed ejaculation, sexual dysfunction; rarely – amenorrhea, pain in the mammary glands, discharge from the mammary glands, dysmenorrhea, enlargement of the mammary glands in volume.
From the side of the hematopoietic system: rarely – neutropenia.
Dermatological reactions: infrequently – skin flushing, sweating, papular rash; rarely – cold sweat; frequency unknown – pruritus, Stevens-Johnson syndrome.
Allergic reactions: rarely – urticaria; frequency unknown – angioedema, hypersensitivity.
On the part of laboratory parameters: infrequently – increased activity of ALT, AST, CPK, a decrease in the number of platelets; rarely – an increase in the content of glucose and creatinine in the blood, a decrease in the level of potassium in the blood, a decrease in the number of leukocytes in the blood.
Other: often – fatigue, peripheral edema, feeling of intoxication, gait disturbance; infrequently – asthenia, falls, thirst, chest tightness, generalized edema, chills, pain; rarely – hyperthermia.
Contraindications for use
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Use in pregnancy and lactation
Adequate, well-controlled safety studies of the use of pregabalin during pregnancy have not been conducted. Women of reproductive age should use adequate methods of contraception when using pregabalin.
It is not known if pregabalin is excreted in human breast milk. If it is necessary to use pregabalin during lactation, the issue of stopping breastfeeding should be considered.
In animal studies , pregabalin produced reproductive toxicity. Pregabalin has been found to be excreted in breast milk in rats.
Special instructions
Use with caution in renal failure, in heart failure. In connection with the reported isolated cases of uncontrolled use of pregabalin, it must be used with caution in patients with a history of drug dependence (during the treatment period, strict medical supervision is required in such cases).
In patients with diabetes mellitus, in case of weight gain during treatment with pregabalin, dose adjustment of hypoglycemic drugs may be required.
Pregabalin should be discontinued if symptoms of angioedema develop (such as swelling of the face, perioral edema, or swelling of the tissues of the upper respiratory tract).
Pregabalin, like other anticonvulsants, may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior. Therefore, during the period of treatment, patients require careful medical monitoring for the occurrence or worsening of depression, the appearance of suicidal thoughts or behavior.
Treatment with pregabalin has been associated with dizziness and drowsiness, which increase the risk of accidental injury (falls) in the elderly. During post-marketing use, there have also been cases of loss of consciousness, confusion and cognitive impairment. Therefore, until patients appreciate the possible effects of pregabalin, they should exercise caution.
Data on the possibility of withdrawal of other anticonvulsants in the suppression of seizures with pregabalin and the advisability of monotherapy with pregabalin are insufficient.
There are reports of the development of seizures, incl. epileptic status and small seizures, against the background of the use of pregabalin or immediately after the end of therapy.
There have also been cases of renal failure, in some cases, after discontinuation of pregabalin, renal function was restored.
The following adverse events have been observed with discontinuation of pregabalin after long-term or short-term therapy: insomnia, headache, nausea, diarrhea, flu-like syndrome, depression, sweating, dizziness, convulsions and anxiety. Information on the frequency and severity of manifestations of pregabalin withdrawal syndrome depending on the duration of therapy with the latter and its dose is not available.
Post-marketing experience with pregabalin has reported the development of chronic heart failure during pregabalin therapy, predominantly in elderly patients with impaired cardiac function and receiving the drug for neuropathy. Therefore, pregabalin should be used with caution in this category of patients.
After the abolition of pregabalin, the manifestations of such reactions may disappear.
The frequency of adverse reactions from the CNS, especially such as drowsiness, is increased in the treatment of central neuropathic pain due to spinal cord injury, which, however, may be due to the summation of the effects of pregabalin and other concomitantly taken drugs (for example, antispastic). This circumstance should be taken into account when pregabalin is prescribed for this indication.
Dependence has been reported with pregabalin. Patients with a history of drug dependence need careful medical monitoring for symptoms of pregabalin dependence.
Cases of encephalopathy have been reported, especially in patients with concomitant diseases that can lead to the development of encephalopathy.
Influence on the ability to drive vehicles and mechanisms
Pregabalin can cause dizziness and drowsiness and, accordingly, affect the ability to drive vehicles and use complex equipment.