Pregabalin (brand name Lyrica) is an anticonvulsant and anti-neuralgic often used to manage, but not cure, fibromyalgia and epileptic seizures. Pregabalin also is used by those suffering from post-herpetic neuralgia. It can also be used to treat nerve pain in patients with neuropathy.
Common Side Effects
Possible common side effects include blurred vision, numbness in the extremities, problems walking or balancing, clumsiness, confusion, dementia, delusions, difficulty talking, memory loss, dry mouth, headache, fever, hoarseness, an increase in the appetite, rapid weight gain, pain in your lower back, mood changes, painful urination, shakiness, sleepiness, trembling and swelling of the hands, feet, face and lower legs. Sometimes, as your body adjusts to the medication, these side effects may subside on their own. Check with your doctor if any side effects are bothersome.
Rare Side Effects
Rare side effects of pregabalin include anxiety, feeling bloated, sensations of burning, prickling, itching or tingling, vision changes, chest pain, a persistent cough that produces mucus, coma, cold sweats, depression, unusual feeling of well-being, joint pain, incontinence, muscle weakness, nausea, vomiting, nervousness, nightmares, excessive flatulence, seizures, slurred speech, uncontrollable eye movements and trembling. Check with your doctor immediately if you experience labored breathing, tightness in the chest, wheezing, blistering or peeling of the skin, fast heartbeat, dizziness, thrush or a swelling of the facial area.
Pre-existing Conditions
Some pre-existing medical conditions may preclude you from taking pregabalin or may require an adjusted dose. You may be unable to use pregabalin if you have diabetes as it will increase your risk of skin rashes and weight gain. If you have heart disease, you will have a greater likelihood of developing side effects. If you have kidney disease, you may need a lower dose of pregabalin. The safety of pregabalin in pregnant or breastfeeding women is unknown.
Drug Interactions
Disclose to your doctor all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter supplements. In particular, you may be unable to use pregabalin if you take drugs for diabetes. Pregabalin will increase the effects of alcohol and CNS antidepressants such as antihistamines, muscle relaxants and prescription pain medications.
Other Considerations
Tell your doctor about any allergies you have, especially if you have had prior allergic reactions to pregabalin. The safety and efficacy of the use of pregabalin in children is unknown. Elderly patients may require a lower dose of pregabalin, as they may be especially sensitive to the possible side effects.
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