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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) helps treat nerve pain and fibromyalgia in adults. It can also be taken with other medications to help treat certain seizures in people 1 month and older. Pregabalin (Lyrica) comes as a capsule and oral solution in both brand-name and generic versions. The dosage depends on what condition you're treating, but it's usually taken by mouth 2 or 3 times a day. Common side effects include feeling dizzy and drowsy. This medication is a controlled substance and has interactions, like with alcohol and benzodiazepines.

    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)
    •Nerve pain from shingles (postherpetic neuralgia)
    •Nerve pain from 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
    •An option for relieving nerve pain caused by diabetes, shingles, and spinal cord injuries
    •Can take with other anti-seizure medications for partial-onset seizures in people as young as 1 month of age
    •Available in a capsule and liquid
    Cons
    •Can cause dizziness and drowsiness
    •Can cause weight gain
    •Is a controlled substance, so there are some rules to follow to get it filled
    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
    •Drowsiness
    •Headache
    •Weight gain
    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
    •Risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior
    •Higher risk of side effects if you stop taking the medication too suddenly or too fast
    •Slowed breathing
    •Dizziness, sleepiness, and trouble concentrating
    •Swelling of the arms or legs
    •Weight gain
    •Lower 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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