Lyrica (pregabalin) is a drug used to treat the pain offibromyalgia.
In addition, it’s FDA-approved for use indiabetic neuropathyandpostherpetic neuralgia(shingles).
It’s also an anti-seizure medication.
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The other medications are Cymbalta (duloxetine) and Savella (milnacipran).
Scientists don’t understand exactly how Lyrica improves fibromyalgia symptoms.
It also may affect the way certain neurotransmitters function.
However, Lyrica doesn’t work for everyone with fibromyalgia.
Some research suggests that the three FDA-approved fibromyalgia drugsLyrica, Cymbalta, and Savellaare all about equally effective.
Combining two drugs may be more beneficial, though.
It’s dangerous to stop taking Lyrica suddenly.
Side Effects
The list of possible side effects is long.
Some are serious enough that you should contact your healthcare provider immediately if you have them.
Know that it can be expensive and some insurance companies won’t pay for it.
Food and Drug Administration.Lyrica.
Forte ML, Butler M, Andrade KE, et al.Treatments for fibromyalgia in adult subgroups [internet].
Table 1, FDA-approved drugs for the treatment of fibromyalgia.
Boomershine C.Pregabalin for the management of fibromyalgia syndrome.Journal of Pain Research.
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2016;36(5):663-72. doi: 10.1007/s00296-016-3468-5
