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Lyrica: Full Drug Profile

Medically reviewed by Dr. Otari Nergadze, Neurosurgeon | Updated: January 2026

Lyrica - General Information

Lyrica is an anticonvulsant drug used for neuropathic pain, as an adjunct therapy for partial seizures, and in generalized anxiety disorder. It was designed as a more potent successor to gabapentin. Lyrica is marketed by Pfizer under the trade name Lyrica. It is considered to have a dependence liability if misused, and is classified as a Schedule V drug in the U.S. [Wikipedia]

 

Pharmacology of Lyrica

Lyrica is a new anticonvulsant drug indicated as an add on therapy for partial onset seizures and for certain types of neuropathic pain. It was designed as a more potent successor to a related drug, gabapentin. Lyrica binds to the alpha2-delta subunit of the voltage-gated calcium channel in the central nervous system. While pregabalin is a structural derivative of the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma- aminobutyric acid (GABA), it does not bind directly to GABAA, GABAB, or benzodiazepine receptors, does not augment GABAA responses in cultured neurons, does not alter rat brain GABA concentration or have acute effects on GABA uptake or degradation. However, in cultured neurons prolonged application of pregabalin increases the density of GABA transporter protein and increases the rate of functional GABA transport. Lyrica does not block sodium channels, is not active at opiate receptors, and does not alter cyclooxygenase enzyme activity. It is inactive at serotonin and dopamine receptors and does not inhibit dopamine, serotonin, or noradrenaline reuptake.

 

Lyrica for patients

 

Lyrica Interactions

 

Lyrica Contraindications

LYRICA is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to pregabalin or any of its components.

 

Additional information about Lyrica

Lyrica Indication

For management of neuropathic pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy and postherpetic neuralgia.

Mechanism Of Action
Lyrica binds with high affinity to the alpha2-delta site (an auxiliary subunit of voltage-gated calcium channels) in central nervous system tissues. Although the mechanism of action of pregabalin is unknown, results with genetically modified mice and with compounds structurally related to pregabalin (such as gabapentin) suggest that binding to the alpha2-delta subunit may be involved in pregabalinís antinociceptive and antiseizure effects in animal models. In vitro, pregabalin reduces the calcium-dependent release of several neurotransmitters, possibly by modulation of calcium channel function.
Drug Interactions
Pioglitazone Increased risk of edema
Generic Name
Pregabalin
Drug Category
Anticonvulsants
Drug Type
Small Molecule; Illicit; Approved
Other Brand Names containing Pregabalin
Lyrica;
Absorption
Well absorbed after oral administration.
Biotransformation
Negligible
Half Life
~6 hours
Dosage Forms of Lyrica
Capsule Oral
Chemical IUPAC Name
(3S)-3-(aminomethyl)-5-methylhexanoic acid
Chemical Formula
C8H17NO2
Organisms Affected
Humans and other mammals