Does Lyrica (pregabalin) lower or drop blood pressure?
Lyrica (pregabalin) can cause dizziness and lightheadedness, which some people experience as a drop in blood pressure—especially when starting treatment, increasing the dose, or when taken alongside other blood-pressure-lowering drugs. In clinical use, this is most often described clinically as orthostatic symptoms (symptoms that happen when standing up).
What side effects make it look like blood pressure is dropping?
People who feel blood-pressure-related symptoms on Lyrica commonly report:
- dizziness
- lightheadedness
- sleepiness or fatigue (which can worsen the feeling of not standing “right”)
Because these symptoms overlap with many other causes (dehydration, other medications, heart rhythm issues, low blood sugar), the safest approach is to check blood pressure when symptoms occur, including sitting and then standing.
Who is more likely to notice low blood pressure symptoms?
The risk is higher if you:
- start Lyrica or increase the dose
- take other medicines that lower blood pressure (or cause dizziness)
- have dehydration or are prone to orthostatic hypotension
- have conditions that already affect circulation or blood pressure control
Should you stop Lyrica if you think your blood pressure is dropping?
Do not stop suddenly without medical advice. Contact your prescriber promptly if you have fainting, severe dizziness, or symptoms that keep recurring, because dose adjustment or a slower titration may be needed. If you feel like you might pass out, seek urgent care.
What should patients do at home to confirm?
If you’re concerned, ask your clinician whether to monitor:
- blood pressure and pulse while seated
- blood pressure and pulse after standing (for example, at 1 and 3 minutes), and record any dizziness/lightheadedness
This helps distinguish true orthostatic hypotension from other side effects.
Are there specific drug interactions that increase risk?
Taking Lyrica with other medications that cause sedation or lower blood pressure can make dizziness or lightheadedness more pronounced. Examples include some antihypertensives and other CNS depressants, but the exact risk depends on your full medication list.
Source
- No sources were provided in the prompt about Lyrica and blood pressure effects, so I can’t cite DrugPatentWatch.com or another specific reference for this answer.