Key takeaways
Lyrica (pregabalin) and Pamelor (nortriptyline) are both prescription medications, but they are used for different purposes and belong to different drug classes. Lyrica is an antiepileptic medication used to treat nerve pain, fibromyalgia, and partial-onset seizures, while Pamelor is a tricyclic antidepressant primarily used to treat depression. Lyrica is taken 2 or 3 times a day and is available in both capsule and oral solution forms, whereas Pamelor is typically taken 3 or 4 times a day and also comes in capsule and liquid forms. Lyrica can cause dizziness and drowsiness, and it is a controlled substance due to its potential for addiction and dependence. On the other hand, Pamelor is not a controlled substance but can take 6 to 8 weeks to show its full effects and has a risk of increasing suicidal thoughts in younger individuals. Both medications should not be stopped suddenly to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
