Lyrica (pregabalin) is an anti-epileptic drug, also called an anticonvulsant. It works by slowing down impulses in the brain that cause seizures. Lyrica also affects chemicals in the brain that send pain signals across the nervous system.

Lyrica is used to control seizures and to treat fibromyalgia. It is also used to treat pain caused by nerve damage in people with diabetes (diabetic neuropathy), herpes zoster (post-herpetic neuralgia, or neuropathic pain associated with spinal cord injury.

Lyrica may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

You should not use Lyrica if you are allergic to pregabalin.

To make sure you can safely take Lyrica, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:

• congestive heart failure;

• diabetes (unless you are taking Lyrica to treat diabetic neuropathy);

• kidney disease (or if you are on dialysis);

• a bleeding disorder;

• low levels of platelets in your blood;

• a history of depression or suicidal thoughts;

• a history of drug or alcohol addiction; or

• if you have ever had a severe allergic reaction.

You may have thoughts about suicide while taking this medication. Tell your doctor if you have new or worsening depression or suicidal thoughts during the first several months of treatment, or whenever your dose is changed.

Your family or other caregivers should also be alert to changes in your mood or symptoms. Your doctor will need to check you at regular visits. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether Lyrica will harm an unborn baby, but having a seizure during pregnancy could harm both mother and baby. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant while taking Lyrica for seizures. Do not start or stop taking Lyrica during pregnancy without your doctor's advice.