Pregabalin (Lyrica)

Lyrica is the name of a medication. The active ingredient that produces the effect of Lyrica is called pregabalin. Doctors prescribe pregabalin for nerve pain, epilepsy, anxiety, and tension. It is sometimes also prescribed for persistent hiccups, restless legs, and pain after surgery. Pregabalin reduces nerve stimulation and decreases overactivity in the brain that can cause seizures and pain.

Pregabalin has a numbing effect. It can produce a relaxing and calming sensation. It may also temporarily create a feeling of euphoria. Because of this, some people use pregabalin as a recreational drug. In those cases, it is not prescribed by a doctor but obtained illegally.

In the Netherlands, we don’t have accurate data on how many people use pregabalin recreationally. It appears to be a relatively small group.

Using pregabalin carries risks. It can have a calming effect, which some people find addictive. You may want to take more and more of it. This is known as craving. Pregabalin can also make you drowsy, which increases the risk of accidents. Combining it with alcohol or other substances can be especially dangerous, as it can intensify the effects.

Do you use pregabalin, or do you know someone who does? Make sure you're aware of the risks. Only use pregabalin if prescribed by a doctor. Want to stop using it? Stopping suddenly can be dangerous. Always consult a doctor or addiction treatment service to taper off safely.

Pregabalin works on your nerves and brain. It can calm you down. It may reduce pain. You might also feel sleepy. Some people experience dizziness or confusion.

Pregabalin can also affect your emotions. You might feel happier, but sometimes also more down. It can slow your thinking and movements, making it harder to concentrate.

Pregabalin is prescribed as a medication. Do you have pregabalin without a prescription? Then it is illegal. People who obtain pregabalin illegally often buy it on the black market — from an internet dealer, on the street, or through a website. In those cases, there’s no guarantee of what's actually in it.

Pregabalin is sold under the brand name Lyrica and comes in pill form. People take the pill orally. It then enters the stomach and intestines, is absorbed, and enters the bloodstream.

Using pregabalin without a prescription increases the risks. Here are some of the possible side effects:

• Fatigue, drowsiness, a groggy feeling

• Dizziness or feeling lightheaded

• Balance problems

• Increased appetite and weight gain

• Irritability and restlessness

• Confusion

• Headache

• Trembling hands

• Difficulty speaking

• Memory problems

• Trouble concentrating

• Nerve pain

• Numbness in hands and feet

• Muscle or joint pain

• Sore throat, cold symptoms, runny or blocked nose

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Digestive problems

• Dry mouth

• Fluid retention

Pregabalin use can cause side effects, even when prescribed. You can find a full list of side effects on this page (Dutch): pregabaline | Apotheek.nl

Pregabalin is addictive. You can become both psychologically and physically dependent on it. This makes it difficult to stop using. If you want to quit, you need to do this gradually. Stopping abruptly is dangerous. Always seek advice from a doctor or addiction care provider.

⚠️ Do not combine pregabalin with alcohol or other drugs.

Alcohol and pregabalin are a dangerous combination. Alcohol increases the sedative effects of pregabalin, which can lead to risky situations.

Combining pregabalin with substances like opioids and painkillers, GHB, or sleeping pills and tranquilizers is also hazardous. These combinations can stop your breathing. You may lose consciousness, fall into a coma, or even die.

This medication passes into breast milk. It is unknown whether it is harmful to the baby. We strongly advise against drug use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Are you using pregabalin with a prescription? Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.