pregabalin ER

Severe allergic reactions to pregabalin ER (Lyrica CR) are possible, including life-threatening reactions like facial swelling and anaphylaxis (e.g., closing of the throat). Additionally, pregabalin ER (Lyrica CR) can also cause angioedema, which is swelling in different parts of the body, including the face, throat, and tongue. The risk for angioedema is higher if you're taking an ACE inhibitor (medications that end in -pril, like lisinopril). Get medical attention immediately if you experience any of these life-threatening symptoms.

Though rare, antiepileptic medications (like pregabalin ER (Lyrica CR)) can raise the risk of having thoughts of suicide or self-harm. To be safe, your healthcare team might screen you for depression and suicidal thoughts every so often. If you or anyone around you notice that you have suicidal thoughts or unusual behavior (e.g., symptoms of depression, anxiety, panic attacks, feeling angry or irritated, restlessness) while taking pregabalin ER (Lyrica CR), call your prescriber right away.

Pregabalin ER (Lyrica CR) can slow your rate of breathing, which can be serious or even life-threatening. This risk is higher if you have a history of lung problems or take pregabalin ER (Lyrica CR) with other medications that can slow your body down or with alcohol. If you develop signs or symptoms of respiratory depression (e.g., daytime sleepiness, fatigue, shallow breathing, ten or less breaths per minute), get medical attention right away.

Suddenly stopping pregabalin ER (Lyrica CR) can sometimes cause withdrawal symptoms to happen. These symptoms can include nausea, headache, trouble sleeping, anxiety, and diarrhea. Withdrawal symptoms might be more likely to happen if you've taken the medication for a long time and you suddenly stop treatment. Don't change your dose or stop taking pregabalin ER (Lyrica CR) without talking to your prescriber first. They'll help you lower your dose slowly over the course of a week before you can stop the medication.

Pregabalin ER (Lyrica CR) can sometimes make you dizzy or sleepy. This can lower your ability to think, react, and focus. These side effects should get better as you continue to take the medication. Your risk for these side effects is higher if you're also taking other medications that can make you feel sleepy. Make sure you know how pregabalin ER (Lyrica CR) affects you before driving a car or doing activities that require your concentration. Talk to your prescriber right away if you feel too sleepy from the medication.

Pregabalin ER (Lyrica CR) can cause swelling of your hands and feet from fluids. You're at higher risk for swelling if you also take a glitazone medication for diabetes or if you have heart failure. If you have swelling that doesn't go away, contact your healthcare professional (HCP). Too much fluid in the body can worsen heart failure.

Though not common, some people experience weight gain after starting pregabalin ER (Lyrica CR). Studies suggest that people who take a higher dose of pregabalin ER (Lyrica CR) or who take this medication over a longer period of time are at higher risk for weight gain. Let your healthcare team know if you're concerned about weight gain during treatment. Work with your care team on coming up with a plan that includes balanced and nutritious meals and an exercise routine that's best for you to help manage your weight.

Some people might notice changes in vision after starting pregabalin ER (Lyrica CR). Though not common, people have reported blurry vision during clinical studies. Let your healthcare team know right away if you notice changes in vision and they will examine you and let you know about next steps.