Yes—Lyrica (pregabalin) is commonly used for neuropathic pain
Lyrica (pregabalin) is prescribed to treat certain types of nerve-related (neuropathic) pain, including painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy and postherpetic neuralgia (pain that continues after shingles) [1]. It is also used for neuropathic pain associated with spinal cord injury [1].
Which neuropathic pain conditions is it used for?
Lyrica is indicated for:
- Painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy [1]
- Postherpetic neuralgia [1]
- Neuropathic pain associated with spinal cord injury [1]
How does it compare with other neuropathic pain options?
Neuropathic pain is often treated with medications such as anticonvulsants (including pregabalin) and certain antidepressants. Lyrica is one of the standard anticonvulsant options used when the pain comes from nerve damage or nerve dysfunction [1].
What side effects do people usually ask about?
Common side effects reported with pregabalin include dizziness and sleepiness, which can affect driving and daily activities [1]. Other side effects can occur, so it’s important to review the full prescribing information with a clinician or pharmacist.
Can it be used with other medicines?
Pregabalin is often combined with other pain-management strategies depending on the cause of the neuropathic pain and the patient’s overall health. Clinicians typically check for medication interactions and conditions that increase risk of sedation or dizziness [1].
What should you tell your clinician before starting?
Because pregabalin can cause drowsiness and is cleared through the kidneys, clinicians usually consider kidney function and current medications before prescribing [1]. If you have kidney problems or you take other medicines that cause drowsiness, that affects dosing and safety.
Sources
[1] https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/daf/index.cfm?event=overview.process&ApplNo=020497