Lyrica

What is Lyrica?

Lyrica is a medication used to relieve neuropathic pain and nerve damage caused by diabetes. This medication falls in the class of drugs called analgesics. Lyrica is available under the brand name Pregabalin.

How does Lyrica work?

Lyrica works by decreasing nerve signals and calming down overly sensitive nerve cells. This helps in decreasing pain signals sent out by damaged nerves in the body.

Who should take Lyrica?

Lyrica is usually prescribed to individuals who are 18 years or older. The medication is also used to treat pain caused by damaged nerves after the healing of shingles. In some cases, doctors prescribe Lyrica to patients who suffer from partial seizures, fibromyalgia, and spinal cord injury.

How to take Lyrica?

Lyrica may be prescribed in the form of tablets or capsules. You must visit your doctor for a diagnosis before starting this medication. A doctor will prescribe you the medication based on your condition. Lyrica is available as tablets in different strengths. You may be prescribed:

• Lyrica 15mg tablet
• Lyrica 25mg tablet
• Lyrica 150mg tablet
• Lyrica 50mg tablet
• Lyrica 75mg tablet
• Lyrica 200mg tablet
• Lyrica 225mg tablet
• Lyrica 300mg tablet

Depending on your doctor's instructions, you can take the tablet orally with water or food. If you miss a dose, do not take two doses at once. It is recommended that you follow your doctor's directions carefully and also read the instruction booklet that comes with the medication.

What precautions you should take?

Before you start taking Lyrica, make sure your doctor is aware of any medical condition you may have or had. Tell your doctor about:

• Any allergies
• Any heart disease
• Any kidney disease
• Any dental or herbal products you use
• Any other prescription medication or supplement you take
• If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant

Older patients may be more sensitive to Lyrica. The medication can cause drowsiness. Therefor it is important that you avoid doing any task that requires alertness such as driving. Also, avoid alcohol.

Side effects of Lyrica

Here are some of the side effects you may experience when taking Lyrica:

• Dry mouth
• Constipation
• Dizziness and drowsiness
• Swelling of the arms and legs
• Unexplained weight gain
• Blurred vision
• Unsteadiness
• Confusion
• Unusual bleeding/bruising
• Change in amount of urine

Patients who take Lyrica for the treatment of seizures may experience the following side effects:

• Depression
• Mental and mood problems
• Suicidal thoughts

Symptoms of allergic reactions that may be caused by Lyrica include:

• Rash
• Swelling of the face, tongue or throat
• Severe dizziness
• Trouble breathing

If the above mentioned side effects persist, you should consult your doctor immediately.

Lyrica can be bought at local pharmacies with a prescription, or even online from leading pharmacy stores such as healthwarehouse.com.