Pregabalin
Also known as: Lyrica
What it's for
Pregabalin treats nerve pain, epilepsy, and generalised anxiety disorder. It calms overactive nerves to reduce pain and anxiety. It works similarly to gabapentin.
Comes as: Capsules or liquid
How to take it
- Adults: Dose varies. Usually start with 75mg twice a day.
- Your doctor may increase the dose gradually.
- Take at the same times each day, with or without food.
- Swallow capsules whole with water.
Doses here are typical. Always follow the instructions from your prescriber or on the packet — they come first.
Common side effects
- Feeling dizzy or drowsy
- Headache
- Dry mouth
- Weight gain
- Swollen hands or feet
The leaflet inside the packet lists all known side effects.
Important safety points
- Can be habit-forming - take only as prescribed
- Do not stop suddenly - taper off gradually
- Avoid alcohol
- May affect your ability to drive
Get medical help urgently if…
- You have thoughts of harming yourself
- You have difficulty breathing
- You have swelling of your face, lips, or throat
- You have a severe skin reaction
Call NHS 111 for urgent advice, or 999 if someone is seriously unwell.
Before you act on anything here
This page is general information, written to help you understand — it is not personal medical advice and it cannot tell you what is right for you. Talk to your own GP, pharmacist or nurse about your own health.
- Need help now but it's not an emergency? Call NHS 111 or use 111.nhs.uk.
- Emergency? Call 999 or go to A&E.