Lyrica (pregabalin) can be used to treat nerve pain that is sometimes caused by the shingles virus, diabetes, or an injury. Pregabalin has also been found to be effective in treating fibromyalgia, and for treatment of generalized anxiety disorder in adults. It is also prescribed to treat epilepsy, and generalized anxiety disorder. For epilepsy, it can be used as an adjunct therapy for partial seizure disorders. It helps to reduce the incidence and severity of seizures by reducing abnormal electrical activity in the brain. For neuropathy (nerve pain), Lyrica blocks pain messages travelling through the brain and down the spine. Lyrica is now also indicated for treating diabetic peripheral neuropathy. For treatment of anxiety, pregabalin inhibits release of excitatory neurotransmitters. This mechanism differs from other drugs like SSRIs and SNRIs, which directly boost the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine. Lyrica is considered as having a low potential for abuse and addiction.

Dosage

Doctors prescribe the dose and regimen for taking Lyrica, which differs from patient to patient and depends on the condition being treated. Do not change the dosage or frequency without discussing this with a doctor. Try to set a regular time each day when the dose is taken, and if the dose is missed and cannot be made up on the same day, do not double-dose the next day to make up for the missed dose.