Pregabalin

Brand names: Lyrica

A nerve-calming medicine used for fibromyalgia and nerve-related pain.

Video lesson

In the studio

Pregabalin

Dr. Tahir is recording this lesson. Check back soon.

Animated explainer

Step 1 of 3

How it works · Pain modulation

Pain signals travel to the brain

Nerves carry signals from the body through the spinal cord to the brain, which decides how loud they feel.

Fibromyalgia, diabetic and post-shingles nerve pain, and some other nerve pain conditions.

It reduces the release of pain-signaling chemicals from overactive nerves.

Capsules taken once to three times a day, starting low and increasing gradually. A bedtime dose can also improve sleep.

Dizziness, sleepiness, weight gain, swelling of the feet and blurred vision. It can affect driving and balance at first.

Kidney function guides the dose. Watch for mood changes, and tell your doctor about other sedating medicines.

Avoid alcohol. Do not stop suddenly. Pregabalin is a controlled substance, so keep it secure.

At a glance

Class

Pain & symptom relief

Brand names

Lyrica

Reviewed by Farhan Tahir, MD, FACR

Questions about your own care?

Book an in-person or telehealth consultation with Dr. Tahir.

Book a consult

For education only. Don’t start, stop or change a medicine without talking to your care team.