Lyrica Side Effects: What to Do
Lyrica, like other drugs, can cause side effects. Learn more about possible side effects, including mild
Common side effects of Lyrica
Side effects of Lyrica may include: These side effects can be temporary and last from a few days up to a few weeks. Talk to your pharmacist if you experience side effects that last more than a few days or become serious.
These are only a few side effects that people who took Lyrica during clinical trials reported.
Sleepiness
swelling the arms and legs
dizziness*
dry mouth*
Blurry vision*
Mild side effect of Lyrica
Lyrica can cause mild side effects. This list does not include all mild side effects. Lyrica's prescribing info has more information.
Lyrica has been associated with mild side effects, including:
Sleepiness
swelling the arms and legs
sexual side effects
Having difficulty with concentration, attention, and focus
dizziness*
dry mouth*
Blurry vision*
Weight gain
mild allergic reaction*
Side effects of Lyrica can vary depending on the condition that you are taking it for. Side effects of Lyrica may differ depending on the condition you are taking it for. For example, someone who is taking Lyrica to treat nerve pain might experience slightly different side effects from someone who is taking Lyrica to treat seizure. Lyrica's side effects are generally similar.
These side effects can be temporary and last for a few days or weeks. Talk to your pharmacist if you experience side effects that last more than a few days or become serious.
Note: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), tracks and reviews side effects after a drug is approved. MedWatch is where you can report any side effects that Lyrica causes to you.
Severe side effects of Lyrica
Lyrica has few side effects. However, Lyrica may cause serious side effects. This list may not contain all side effects. Lyrica's prescribing info has more information.
Call your doctor immediately if you experience serious side effects from Lyrica. You should immediately dial 911 or your nearest emergency number if the side effects are life-threatening.
Side effects with serious side effects have been reported.
Suicidal thoughts Symptoms and behaviors. These symptoms can include:
worsening depression
feeling hopeless
Not wanting to take part in activities that were once enjoyable
Muscle problems such as rhabdomyolysis . These symptoms can include:
Muscle cramps and aching
Weakness
Dark urine
Low platelet levels (thrombocytopenia). These symptoms can include:
It's easier to bruise than ever
nosebleeds
A cut or wound that has been left untreated may cause bleeding to last longer than normal.
Severe allergic reaction. *
Side effects in children
Children taking Lyrica may experience the same side effects as adults. Children may also experience increased appetite. Children who took Lyrica reported sleepiness and weight gain.
Lyrica cannot be used to treat partial onset seizures in children younger than 1 month old.
Talk to your doctor if Lyrica side effects are a concern for your child.
Side effects of Lyrica
Lyrica can cause sexual side effects. A decrease in libido or lower sex drive was common during clinical trials. Although this side effect was uncommon, it was reported that there was an increase in libido.
Lyrica may also cause a change to your libido. Lyrica can make you feel dizzy or sleepy. You may also experience a decrease of your libido.
Talk to your doctor if you are concerned about side effects of Lyrica treatment.
FAQs concerning side effects Lyrica
Lyrica may cause several side effects. These are the most frequently asked questions regarding side effects of Lyrica and their answers.
Are there any side effects to Lyrica that differ depending on the strength of Lyrica, such as 25mg, 50mg, or 75mg?
You may experience side effects more frequently if you take Lyrica at a higher dosage. Because your body is exposed to more medication, a higher dosage of Lyrica can cause side effects. Side effects can be more likely if you have more medication in your body.
Lyrica can be purchased in these strengths:
25 milligrams (mg)
50 mg
75 mg
100 mg
150 mg
200 mg
225 mg
300 mg
Lyrica is also available as an oral solution in one strength, 20 mg per milliliter liquid.
It is possible that someone who takes 25 mg of Lyrica may experience fewer side effects than someone who takes 200 mg. Talk to your doctor if you have any side effects from Lyrica.
Are there any side effects that are more common in Lyrica-treated older adults?
Most older adults (65 years and older) will experience the same side effects as younger people. Lyrica's safety and effectiveness in older or older adults was not different in clinical studies than in younger adults.
The following side effects were more common in older adults who took Lyrica for Fibromyalgia:
dizziness
Blurred vision
Balance or coordination problems
body tremors
There is confusion
Sleepiness
Talk to your pharmacist or doctor if you are an older adult concerned about side effects of Lyrica. Your doctor or pharmacist can help you understand your risks and what to look out for.
Can Lyrica cause long-term side effects?
Lyrica can cause permanent side effects, or long-term side effects. Long-term side effects are rare with this medication.
Suicidal thoughts and behaviors are two examples of long-term side effect. Rhabdomyolysis can also cause harm to your organs such as kidneys.
Talk to your pharmacist if you are concerned about the long-term side effects of Lyrica. Your doctor or pharmacist can help you discuss the potential side effects and recommend ways to manage them. Sometimes side effects can be treated quickly if you are aware of them.
Are there any risks in taking Lyrica
There are risks associated with Lyrica. This medication can cause blurry vision, dizziness and sleepiness. This medication can have a negative impact on your daily life, including your ability to drive a car or operate machinery. These potential risks make it unsafe to drive a vehicle, work with machines or engage in other activities while you are still learning about the effects of the drug.
Lyrica may also cause side effects that can be potentially dangerous. Lyrica can also increase your chances of developing depression, suicidal thoughts and behaviors. You may also be at greater risk for rhabdomyolysis which can have long-term consequences.
Lyrica is also a controlled substance. Because of the risk of misuse and dependence, controlled substances are regulated. A misuse of a drug is when you use it in a different way than what was prescribed. When your body requires medication to function normally, drug dependence may occur. If you are prone to drug abuse or dependence, tell your doctor.
Lyrica has been approved by the FDA and has been proven to be safe and effective for all conditions. Talk to your pharmacist if you have concerns about Lyrica's potential dangers.
Are there any side effects to switching from gabapentin and Lyrica?
You shouldn't experience side effects when switching from gabapentin and Lyrica. Sudden discontinuation of gabapentin can make symptoms worse. It may cause new or worsening seizures in rare cases.
Your doctor may recommend Lyrica over gabapentin. FDA approved for certain seizure conditions, such as nerve pain, Lyrica (pregabalin), and Neurontin (gabapentin). Lyrica may be recommended by your doctor if gabapentin isn't helping with your nerve pain and seizures.
Your doctor might suggest a gradual withdrawal from gabapentin to avoid abruptly switching or stopping your medication.
You should not switch medications by yourself. Your doctor may recommend that you stop taking gabapentin and change to Lyrica. Your doctor can help you decide the best way to switch your medications.
Talk to your pharmacist if you have any questions about switching from gabapentin and Lyrica.
Side effect specifics
Find out more about side effects Lyrica can cause. For more information about side effects in clinical trials of Lyrica, please refer to the prescribing information.
Weight loss
Lyrica may cause weight gain. In clinical trials, people who took Lyrica reported weight gain.
If you take Lyrica at a higher dosage for a longer time, your risk of weight gain may increase. It's important to remember that there was no increase in blood sugar or blood pressure in those who gained weight with Lyrica. It's also not known what long-term effects Lyrica weight gain might have.
Lyrica can cause swelling in the arms and legs. This could increase your chance of weight gain.
Children and adults who take Lyrica may also experience an increase of appetite. This may lead to weight gain.
What you can do
Talk to your doctor if you notice an unexpected weight gain after Lyrica treatment. Your doctor can help you to reverse weight gain and manage your weight.
Dizziness
Lyrica can cause dizziness. In clinical studies of Lyrica, dizziness was reported as a common side effect. Dizziness can manifest as lightheadedness, loss or spinning sensations, and may also be caused by lightheadedness.
What you can do
Tell your doctor if you feel dizzy while taking Lyrica. Lyrica can cause dizziness, so it is not recommended that you drive, use machines, or do any other dangerous activities while taking the drug. After you start Lyrica, your doctor will help you determine if it is safe to do any of these activities.
Your doctor might also be able help you with dizziness. Sometimes, your doctor may suggest a different treatment option.
Dry mouth
Lyrica can cause a dry, cracked or irritated mouth. In clinical trials of Lyrica, dry mouth was the most frequent side effect. Dry mouth can be characterized by dryness of the lips, dry tongue, and sores around your corners of lips.
What you can do
If you have dry mouth after Lyrica treatment, tell your doctor. Your doctor may recommend the following treatments to treat dry mouth:
decreasing caffeine
Chew gum or candy to improve your saliva
sipping water
Stop smoking and chewing tobacco
Use an over-the-counter toothpaste to moisten your lips
Your doctor will be able to help you determine the best way to treat dry mouth.
Brilliance in vision
Lyrica may cause blurry vision. In clinical trials, blurry vision was one of the most common side effects reported by Lyrica users.
What you can do
Talk to your doctor if you notice changes in your vision due to Lyrica treatment, such as blurry vision. Your doctor may recommend that you have your vision examined by an eye doctor. Your doctor might recommend a different treatment option if your blurry vision is very severe or bothersome.
Allergy
Lyrica, like most drugs, can cause an allergic response in certain people.
You may experience mild or severe symptoms.
skin rash
Itching
Flushing
Angioedema is a swelling of the skin under the eyes, usually in your lips, eyelids, and feet.
It can cause swelling in your throat, tongue, and mouth. This can make it difficult to breathe.
What you can do
Call your doctor immediately if you have mild symptoms. Your doctor may be able to recommend ways to alleviate your symptoms or decide if you should continue taking Lyrica. If your symptoms become severe or you feel you need to call 911 immediately.
Suicide prevention
You should immediately inform someone you know who is at risk of self-harm, suicide or hurting another person.
Ask the hard question: "Are You Thinking of Suicide?"
Without judgment, listen to the person.
To speak with a trained counselor in crisis, call 911 or your local emergency number.
Until professional help arrives, stay with the person.
Remove any drugs, weapons or other potentially dangerous objects.
Lyrica Precautions
Before you start Lyrica, talk to your doctor about your medical history. If you have any medical conditions, or other factors that could affect your health, this drug may not be the right choice. These conditions are known as drug-factor or drug-condition interactions. Consider the following conditions and factors:
Suicidal thoughts and behaviors, mood problems, depression. Lyrica may increase your risk for depression, mood disorders, and suicidal ideas. These conditions can make you more susceptible to developing new symptoms. Lyrica can be a safe option for you if your doctor approves.
Bleeding conditions. Lyrica can cause low platelet levels which could increase your risk of bleeding. These side effects may occur more frequently if you have bleeding disorders. Discuss Lyrica with your doctor to see if it is a safe option.
Kidney problems. Talk to your doctor about any renal problems, especially if you are on dialysis before you start Lyrica. Your kidneys remove this medication from your body. If your kidneys aren't functioning properly, Lyrica can be ingested by too many people, increasing the risk of side effects. If you have kidney problems, your doctor may recommend a lower dosage of Lyrica.
Trouble breathing. Lyrica can increase your chances of developing respiratory depression or difficulty breathing. Lyrica can make it worse if you already have difficulty breathing. This can sometimes be life-threatening or very serious in some cases. Talk to your doctor if you have breathing difficulties. Lyrica can be prescribed only by your doctor.
You have a heart condition. Tell your doctor before you take Lyrica. Lyrica can cause swelling in the legs and arms. This medication can cause swelling if you have certain conditions such as Heart Failure. Before you start Lyrica, tell your doctor about any existing heart conditions. They will be able to determine if this medication can be used safely.
Allergic reaction. Your doctor won't likely prescribe Lyrica to you if you have had an allergic response to Lyrica and any of its ingredients. Ask your doctor about other medications that may be more suitable for you.
History or potential history of alcohol or drug misuse. Inform your doctor. Lyrica, a controlled medication that can cause misuse and dependence. Lyrica can increase your risk if you are a recovering addict. Lyrica can be safely used by your doctor.
Angioedema. Lyrica can cause angioedema. This is swelling in your neck, face, and other parts of your body. Angioedema may be life-threatening or severe. Lyrica should be prescribed only to those who have angioedema. This side effect could be more common in some people.
Alcohol with Lyrica
Lyrica should not be taken with alcohol. Side effects of Lyrica can be exacerbated by alcohol, including dizziness, sleepiness and blurry vision.
If you have any questions about Lyrica's use of alcohol, talk to your doctor.
Lyrica can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding
Here are some details about Lyrica and breastfeeding.
Pregnancy. Lyrica safety during pregnancy is unknown. There is not enough information available on Lyrica's safety during pregnancy at this time to make an informed decision about whether the drug is safe.
Studies on animals have shown that Lyrica-treated pregnant animals may have a higher risk of congenital abnormalities (also known as birth defects). There may also be an increased chance of miscarriage. It is important to remember that animal studies do not always reflect what might happen in humans.
Before you take Lyrica if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, consult your doctor.
Lyrica pregnancy registry
Lyrica users who get pregnant while on the drug have access to a pregnancy registry. A pregnancy registry is a compilation of data that helps determine whether a drug is safe for use during pregnancy. This registry helps to determine the potential side effects of a drug if taken during pregnancy.
Breastfeeding. Lyrica is not recommended for breastfeeding. It is likely that this medication will be passed into breast milk. It is not known if Lyrica will have any effect on breast-fed children.
Talk to your doctor if you are breastfeeding or intending to breastfeed before Lyrica. They will discuss with you your options and how to best feed your child.
Lyrica. Misuse
Lyrica can cause drug abuse. A misuse of a drug is when you use it in a different way than what was prescribed. Lyrica can be misused or dependent.
Overdose can be increased by misusing a drug. Overdose symptoms of Lyrica can be fatal and could include:
depression or anxiety
Sensitivity to the environment has declined
There is confusion
Agitation
Restlessness
seizures
Heart problems
Talk to your doctor if Lyrica is not being taken as prescribed. Your doctor can recommend ways to avoid misuse and help you find a new treatment option.
How to talk to your doctor
Side effects can occur when Lyrica is taken. These side effects are usually mild. It is possible to experience severe side effects.
Talk to your pharmacist or doctor if you have any questions about Lyrica. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about any side effects of the drug.
You can also do your research by yourself, in addition to talking to your doctor. These articles may be of assistance