Generic Lyrica (Pregabalin)

What is Pregabalin (Generic Lyrica)?

PREGABALIN is used to treat nerve pain from diabetes, shingles, and fibromyalgia. It is also used to control seizures in epilepsy. Pregabalin may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care providers before I take Pregabalin?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• bleeding problems
• heart disease, including heart failure
• history of alcohol or drug abuse
• kidney disease
• suicidal thoughts, plans, or attempt; a previous suicide attempt by you or a family member
• an unusual or allergic reaction to pregabalin, gabapentin, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant or trying to conceive with your partner
• breast-feeding

How should I use Pregabalin?

Take Pregabalin by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. You can take Pregabalin with or without food. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on the advice of your doctor or health care professional.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of Pregabalin in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of Pregabalin contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

Note: Pregabalin is only for you. Do not share Pregabalin with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with Pregabalin?

• medicines for diabetes, like pioglitazone or rosiglitazone
• medicines used to help you sleep or relax like lorazepam, alprazolam, or diazepam
• prescription pain medicines

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What side effects may I notice from Pregabalin?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• anxiety, confusion
• breathing problems
• changes in vision
• chest pain
• jerking or unusual movements of any part of your body
• loss of memory
• muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness
• tremors
• unusual bruising or bleeding
• worsening of mood, thoughts or actions of suicide or dying

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• constipation or diarrhea
• dry mouth
• headache
• insomnia or difficulty sleeping
• nausea
• weight gain

This list may not describe all possible side effects.

What should I watch for while using Pregabalin?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. You may want to keep a personal record at home of how you feel your condition is responding to treatment. Share this information with your doctor or health care professional at each visit.

You should contact your doctor or health care professional if your seizures get worse or if you have any new types of seizures. Do not stop taking Pregabalin or any of your seizure medicines unless instructed by your doctor or health care professional. Stopping your medicine suddenly can increase your seizures or their severity.

Wear a medical identification bracelet or chain if you are taking Pregabalin for seizures, and carry a card that lists all your medications.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how Pregabalin affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol may interfere with the effect of Pregabalin. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

If you have a heart condition, like congestive heart failure, and notice that you are retaining water and have swelling in your hands or feet, contact your health care provider immediately.

The use of Pregabalin may increase the chance of suicidal thoughts or actions. Pay special attention to how you are responding while on Pregabalin. Any worsening of mood, or thoughts of suicide or dying should be reported to your health care professional right away.

Where should I keep Pregabalin?

Keep out of the reach of children. Pregabalin can be abused. Keep your medicine in a safe place to protect it from theft. Do not share Pregabalin with anyone. Selling or giving away Pregabalin is dangerous and against the law.