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Compare Lyrica vs. Lidoderm

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Lyrica (pregabalin) and lidocaine viscous 2% are both used to manage pain, but they work in different ways and are used for different types of pain. Lyrica is an oral medication that treats nerve pain from conditions like diabetes, shingles, and spinal cord injuries, and it can also help with fibromyalgia and prevent seizures. It is taken 2 or 3 times a day and can cause side effects like dizziness and drowsiness. On the other hand, lidocaine viscous 2% is a topical medication used to numb painful sores in the mouth and throat. It is swished and spit or swallowed every 3 hours as needed, but using it too often can lead to serious side effects like heart rhythm problems and trouble breathing. Lyrica is a controlled substance due to its potential for addiction, while lidocaine viscous 2% is not. Additionally, Lyrica is available in both capsule and oral solution forms, whereas lidocaine viscous 2% is only available as a liquid.

  • Pregabalin (Lyrica)
    Lidocaine 5% patch (Lidoderm)
  • Pregabalin (Lyrica)
    Lidocaine 5% patch (Lidoderm)

  • Summary of Lyrica vs. Lidoderm

    Summary for Antiepileptic
    Prescription only

    Pregabalin (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.

    Summary for Local anesthetic
    Prescription only

    Lidocaine 5% patch (Lidoderm) is a prescription medication used to relieve nerve pain caused by a shingles infection, also called postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). It's a local anesthetic that works by numbing your nerves to help reduce pain. You apply the patch directly to the painful area of your skin once a day, and it can be worn for up to 12 hours in a 24-hour period. Common side effects include temporary skin irritation, redness, and a mild burning sensation where the patch is applied.

  • Indications of Lyrica vs. Lidoderm

    Indications for
    •Nerve pain from diabetes (diabetic peripheral neuropathy), shingles (postherpetic neuralgia), or spinal cord injury
    •Fibromyalgia
    •Partial-onset seizures
    Indications for
    •Nerve pain caused by shingles (postherpetic neuralgia)

  • Pros and Cons of Lyrica vs. Lidoderm

    Pros and Const for Antiepileptic
    Pros
    •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 generic
    Cons
    •Can cause dizziness and drowsiness
    •Must avoid drinking alcohol
    •Not recommended for breastfeeding females
    •Can cause weight gain
    Pros and Const for Local anesthetic
    Pros
    •Works directly on the skin
    •Generally well-tolerated with few side effects
    •Can cut patches to fit the area of pain
    Cons
    •Commonly causes skin irritation
    •Must avoid contact with water wearing the patch
    •Might interact with many medications

  • Common Side Effects of Lyrica vs. Lidoderm

    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%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Blisters
    •Bruising
    •Burning sensation
    •Changes in skin color
    •Rash or redness
    •Swelling
    •Peeling or flaking skin
    •Itching
    •Small bumps or spots
    •Tiny red or purple dots under the skin
    •Tingling or numbness in the area

  • Warnings of Lyrica vs. Lidoderm

    Common 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 breakdown
    Common Side Effects for
    •Blood problem (methemoglobinemia)
    •Absorbing too much medication
    •Accidental poisoning in children or pets

  • Prices with our coupons for Lyrica vs. Lidoderm

    Learn more about Pregabalin
    Learn more about Lidocaine 5% patch

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