Non-Opioid Pain Medicines
Pregabalin
(Lyrica®) tablets
Pregabalin (Lyrica) is a prescribed medicine that helps with nerve pain or seizures. This medicine helps with nerve pain, called “neuropathic pain.”
How do I take this medicine?
Swallow the tablet whole – do not chew, break, or crush this medicine.
If taking once a day, take after dinner. If taking twice a day, take one in the morning, and one after dinner.
Continue taking this medicine, even if your pain is under control. Medicines like pregabalin should be taken every day, on a schedule. Do not stop taking this medicine, unless your care team tells you to do so.
What are the side effects?
Pregabalin often causes dizziness and feeling sleepy. This is usually worse when someone first starts taking the medicine, or after the dose is increased. Usually the body gets used to this medicine and these side effects will go away on their own.
Occasionally, pregabalin can cause upset stomach, constipation, and weight gain. Rarely, it can cause tremor or double vision.
While side effects can be tough, there are ways to manage them. Talk to your care team if any of these side effects are interfering with your life.
