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Lyrica vs. Xanax

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

Key takeaways

Lyrica (pregabalin) and Xanax (alprazolam) are both prescription medications, but they are used for different conditions and belong to different drug classes. Lyrica is an antiepileptic medication used to treat nerve pain, fibromyalgia, and partial-onset seizures. It is taken 2 or 3 times a day and is available in both capsule and oral solution forms. Common side effects include dizziness and drowsiness. Xanax, on the other hand, is a benzodiazepine used to treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic attacks. It is typically taken 3 times a day and is available in immediate-release tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, and oral solution forms. Common side effects include drowsiness and memory problems. While both medications can cause drowsiness and should not be mixed with alcohol, Xanax has a higher risk of dependence and withdrawal symptoms, making it suitable only for short-term use. Both Lyrica and Xanax are available in generic form.

Pregabalin

(Lyrica)

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Alprazolam

(Xanax)

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Summary for Lyrica

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.

Indications for Lyrica

Pros and Cons for Lyrica

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

Common Side Effects for Lyrica

  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness
  • Headache
  • Weight gain

Warnings for Lyrica

  • 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

Summary for Xanax

Prescription only

Alprazolam (Xanax) is a benzodiazepine. It's approved to treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic attacks in adults. It's taken by mouth, typically 3 times a day or as directed by your healthcare team. To avoid the risk of dependence, alprazolam (Xanax) is meant for short-term treatment only. Some of the more common side effects of this medication include drowsiness and memory problems. You should avoid drinking alcohol while taking alprazolam (Xanax) because this can lead to serious interactions.

Indications for Xanax

Pros and Cons for Xanax

Pros

  • Taken by mouth
  • Can start to work in 30 minutes
  • Available as quick-dissolving tablets or liquid for people who have trouble swallowing pills

Cons

Common Side Effects for Xanax

Generalized anxiety disorder:

  • Drowsiness (41%)
  • Lightheadedness (21%)
  • Dry mouth (15%)

Panic disorder:

  • Drowsiness (77%)
  • Fatigue (49%)
  • Poor coordination (40%)
  • Memory issues (33%)
  • Irritability (33%)
  • Appetite changes (28-33%)
  • Thinking problems (29%)
  • Constipation (26%)

Side effects listed are for the immediate-release forms. Side effects for extended-release form might differ.

Warnings for Xanax

  • Sedation and difficulty breathing
  • Potential for misuse, addiction, dependence, and withdrawal
  • Effect on driving and concentration
  • Harm to babies
  • Interactions with other medications
  • Use with caution in people with depression

Prices with our coupons for Lyrica vs. Xanax

Price Card Drug Icon
Pregabalin60 capsules / 75mg
$13.43$40.85
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Alprazolam30 tablets / 0.5mg
$10.40$14.16
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