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.
