Lyrica (Pregabalin) for Fibromyalgia | MyFibroTeam

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Overview
Lyrica is a prescription medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2007 for the treatment of fibromyalgia. The drug name of Lyrica is Pregabalin. Lyrica is not a cure for fibromyalgia, but it can reduce pain and improve daily function for some people with fibromyalgia.

Lyrica must be used with caution and closely monitored in people with a history of angioedema, edema, heart problems, blood disorders, or depression. Lyrica is not suitable for use by pregnant women, men or women who plan to try to conceive a child, or women who are breastfeeding.

Lyrica is an anticonvulsant, or drug that prevents seizures. It is believed that Lyrica works in cases of fibromyalgia by reducing the number of pain signals that nerves send, calming overactive nerves.

How do I take it?
Lyrica is a capsule taken orally two or three times a day. Lyrica may be taken with or without food. It is important to take Lyrica at approximately the same times each day. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Lyrica, since it can exacerbate some side effects.

If you decide to stop taking Lyrica, consult your doctor on how to taper off. Do not abruptly stop taking Lyrica.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions exactly when taking Lyrica.

Results
A 2005 study tested the effectiveness of various dosages of Pregabalin (Lyrica) on 529 people with fibromyalgia. Among those who took 450 milligrams per day of Pregabalin, 29 percent experienced 50 percent or better improvement in pain, as well as improvements in sleep quality and fatigue, compared with the placebo.

Side effects
Older adults may experience some side effects of Lyrica more intensely.

Common side effects of Lyrica include drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, weight gain, edema (swelling), difficulty concentrating, and blurry vision.

Call your doctor if you experience rapid weight gain, swelling in your hands or feet, vision problems, bruising or bleeding more easily, or muscle pain or weakness, especially with fever.

Some people experience neurological symptoms including depression or suicidal thoughts while taking Lyrica. Contact your doctor if you experience these side effects.

Lyrica can also cause allergic reactions. Get medical help immediately if you experience difficulty breathing or swelling in the face, throat, eyes, lips, or tongue.

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