Compare Lexapro vs. Lyrica
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Lexapro (escitalopram) and Lyrica (pregabalin) are both prescription medications, but they are used for different conditions and belong to different drug classes. Lexapro is an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) primarily used to treat depression and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). It works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain and is typically taken once daily. On the other hand, Lyrica is an antiepileptic medication used to treat nerve pain from conditions like diabetes, shingles, and spinal cord injury, as well as fibromyalgia and partial-onset seizures. Lyrica is usually taken two or three times a day. Lexapro is not a controlled substance, while Lyrica is classified as a Schedule V controlled substance due to its potential for addiction and dependence. Common side effects of Lexapro include nausea, trouble sleeping, and drowsiness, whereas Lyrica often causes dizziness, drowsiness, and weight gain. Additionally, Lexapro is available in both tablet and liquid forms, while Lyrica comes as a capsule and oral solution.
- Escitalopram (Lexapro)Pregabalin (Lyrica)
- Escitalopram (Lexapro)Pregabalin (Lyrica)
Summary of Lexapro vs. Lyrica
Summary for SSRIPrescription onlyEscitalopram, also known by its brand name, Lexapro, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It's a first-choice antidepressant to treat depression and anxiety in adults and children. The medication is available as a tablet and oral solution, in both brand and generic forms. A dose is typically taken by mouth once per day. Some common side effects include nausea, trouble sleeping (insomnia), and dizziness.
Summary for AntiepilepticPrescription onlyPregabalin (Lyrica) treats pain caused by nerve damage and fibromyalgia in adults. It can be used with other medications to prevent seizures for both adults and children. Pregabalin (Lyrica) is taken by mouth, typically 2 or 3 times a day. It's available as a capsule and oral solution. Some of the more common side effects of this medication include dizziness and drowsiness.
Indications of Lexapro vs. Lyrica
Indications for•Depression in people ages 12 years and older•Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in people ages 7 years and olderIndications for•Nerve pain from diabetes (diabetic peripheral neuropathy), shingles (postherpetic neuralgia), or spinal cord injury•FibromyalgiaPros and Cons of Lexapro vs. Lyrica
Pros and Const for SSRIPros•First-choice medication for anxiety and depression•Only need to take it once a day•Generally has fewer side effects compared to other antidepressants•Can be taken with or without foodCons•Can take up to 2 months before you feel the the full benefits•Risk of certain sexual problems•Can raise your risk for bleeds•Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking itPros and Const for AntiepilepticPros•Works well to relieve nerve pain caused by diabetes, shingles, and spinal cord injuries•Available in a capsule and oral solution•Used in combination with other anti-seizure drugs to treat partial-onset seizures•Available as a lower-cost genericCons•Can cause dizziness and drowsiness•Must avoid drinking alcohol•Not recommended for breastfeeding females•Can cause weight gainCommon Side Effects of Lexapro vs. Lyrica
Common Side Effects for•Headache (24%)•Nausea (15-18%)•Ejaculation problems (9-14%)•Sleepiness (6-13%)•Trouble sleeping (9-12%)•Dry mouth (6-9%)•Diarrhea (8%)•Tiredness (5-8%)Common Side Effects for•Dizziness (8-29%)•Drowsiness (4-16%)•Swelling of hands, feet, arms, or legs (4-12%)•Dry mouth (2-7%)•Weight gain (4-6%)Warnings of Lexapro vs. Lyrica
Common Side Effects for•Worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, and unusual behavior•Serotonin syndrome•Stopping escitalopram (Lexapro) too suddenly•Risk of bleeding•Not for use alone in bipolar disorder•Glaucoma•Life-threatening abnormal heart rhythm (QT prolongation)•Low blood sodium levels•Sexual problemsCommon Side Effects for•Allergic reactions and severe swelling•Suicidal thoughts and behavior•Difficulty driving and concentrating•Breathing problems•Swelling in the limbs and weight gain•Withdrawal symptoms and risk of seizures•Possible risk of bleeds (from low platelet levels)•Possible risk of muscle breakdownPrices with our coupons for Lexapro vs. Lyrica
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