Pregabalin (Lyrica) Uses

Pregabalin is used to treat pain caused by damaged nerves, such as neuropathic pain associated with diabetes, a spinal cord injury, postherpetic neuralgia (shingles), and fibromyalgia. It is also used as an adjunctive treatment for partial-onset seizures. 

 There may be other uses of pregabalin, such as for restless legs syndrome. Your healthcare professionals or pharmacist can give you further pregabalin drug information.

Pregabalin (Lyrica) Mechanism of Action

Pregabalin is a gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) analog. GABA is a neurotransmitter in the central nervous system that blocks signals between nerves. Pregabalin works by decreasing pain signals from damaged nerves. It also reduces brain activity and can help to prevent seizures. 

Pregabalin (Lyrica) Doses

Pregabalin is available as capsules (25 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg, 225 mg, and 300 mg), extended-release tablets (82.5 mg, 165 mg, 330 mg), and an oral solution 20 mg/mL. The usual dose of pregabalin in adults is as follows:

• Diabetic peripheral neuropathy pain: Maximum dose of 300 mg per day in 3 divided doses. 
• Postherpetic neuralgia (shingles) pain: Maximum dose of 600 mg per day in 2-3 divided doses.
• Nerve pain associated with spinal cord injury: Maximum dose of 600 mg per day in 2 divided doses.
• For pain improvement in fibromyalgia: 300 to 450 mg per day in 2 divided doses.
• Partial onset seizures: Maximum dose of 600 mg per day in 2-3 divided doses.

The pediatric dose of pregabalin for adjunctive therapy of seizure disorders depends on the child’s weight.