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Compare Lyrica vs. Pamelor

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

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.

  • Pregabalin (Lyrica)
    Nortriptyline (Pamelor)
  • Pregabalin (Lyrica)
    Nortriptyline (Pamelor)

  • Summary of Lyrica vs. Pamelor

    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 Tricyclic antidepressant
    Prescription only

    Nortriptyline (Pamelor) is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA). It's approved to treat depression in adults. This medication is also often prescribed off-label to treat certain types of nerve pain. Nortriptyline (Pamelor) is available as a capsule and liquid that are taken by mouth. Side effects include dry mouth, dizziness, and possible weight gain. This medication is available under the brand name Pamelor and as a generic.

  • Indications of Lyrica vs. Pamelor

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

  • Pros and Cons of Lyrica vs. Pamelor

    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 Tricyclic antidepressant
    Pros
    •Available as a capsule and liquid
    •Taken by mouth once per day, or split into smaller doses throughout the day
    Cons
    •Not a first-choice option for depression because of side effects
    •Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking it after long-term use
    •Not recommended for children

  • Common Side Effects of Lyrica vs. Pamelor

    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
    •Blurred vision
    •Dry mouth
    •Nausea
    •Vomiting
    •Stomach upset
    •Loss of appetite
    •Numbness in the hands or feet
    •Rash
    •Itching
    •Changes in blood pressure

  • Warnings of Lyrica vs. Pamelor

    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
    •Worsening depression and risk for suicidal thoughts and unusual behavior
    •Not for use alone in bipolar disorder
    •Dizziness and drowsiness
    •Risk of heart problems, heart attack, or stroke
    •Glaucoma

  • Prices with our coupons for Lyrica vs. Pamelor

    Learn more about Pregabalin
    Learn more about Nortriptyline

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