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.
