Lyrica

[steve5197]

has anyone ever been perscribed Lyrica for cronic pain. If so how much do you take, and how long did it take to notice any results. I started taking 50MG's 3X's a day. I started last Tuesday, and haven't noticed any difference in my pain. any feedback would be great.
  Thanks steve

[fpainestam]

Hi, Steve.

My pain doctor started me on Lyrica last June (I think), and started with a low dose, 50 mg. (like yours), twice a day.  Over a period of three or four months, we built that up to 100 mg. (all twice a day).  I couldn't detect much effect at all.  Then about a month ago, I had to switch doctors, and my new doctor upped the dosage to 200 mg. twice a day, and at this level, I definitely felt some benefit.  The doctor's logic was that it might slow down the rate at which I was having to increase my oxycodone dosage.  I think he was right, and I am now a fan.

There are a couple of downsides, though, that you should be aware of.  First, as several people have said, it can give you some tendency to sleepiness.  So far, I have found this to be manageable, but you need to be careful, especially with things like driving.  Second, I have developed some minor issues with bodily coordination, and I believe that the medication is the cause.  Again, it has been manageable, but you need be careful, and self-aware.

Best wishes! fpainestam

[steve5197]

Thats about all that has happened even worse with the oxycodone, and I also take ativan for anxiety but with them combined i can't stay awake to save my life
      thanks again

[lovemypillhead]

I was on it.  It did absolutely NOTHING to help me.  Except make me pass out.  Seriously....I couldn't fight hard enough to stay awake on that.

I hate it.

[steve5197]

Thanks for the info. I didn't know it was a nerve pain med. The dose may be related to the other meds i'm on. I take a pretty high dose of oxycodone. However my pain is not nerve pain. i've had 7 major abdominal surguries, 4 in the last 16 months and have a ton of adhesions.
        thanks,
                  steve

[Tuckamore]

Hello Steve,

Welcome to the Pain Management Community. I am glad you found us.

Lyrica takes several days to build up in your system. You are on an extremely small dose. If you have no relief in a few weeks I would guess your physician may increase the dose. I have not taken the drug but there are many members here that have and I suspect they will respond to your post in a bit.

Lyrica is for nerve pain. I have heard members claim it is a wonderful drug and I have heard a few that have not had the results they were seeking. Another nerve medication is Neurontin. Usually one of the two will work to some degree to reduce nerve pain. Our systems are different and each person responds differently to medications.

Good luck to you. Please let us know how you are doing. I will look forward to your next update. Peace, Tuck