Gabapentin vs Lyrica – Can You Take Them Together? Which Is More Effective

People around the globe are very often facing nerve-related conditions. While their illness is differ from one another, some might face spinal cord injury, severe nerve pain, seizures, shingles, fibromyalgia, and so on. Dealing with this type of stubborn pain can be exhausting and peace-interrupting. Seeking relief from nerve pains, patients often reach out for reliable pain-relievers. That is when ‘Gabapentin vs Lyrica for nerve pain’ comes in comparison. Despite both of these being nerve pain-relievers, it can be a dilemma to choose between Gabapentin and Lyrica. No worries, though, as this blog is to shed light on confusion and guide you to your final decision whether to go for Gabapentin or Lyrica.

Gabapentin vs Lyrica For Nerve Pain: Benefits & Risks

To understand Gabapentin vs Lyrica, one should have a brief idea about both substances. Gabapentin and Lyrica, two of them being anticonvulsants, are effective for nerve pain and other neurological disorders like seizures, shingles, etc. It is shown that even under a doctor’s supervision, these medications have severe side effects that can be described below in the Gabapentin vs Lyrica side effects section. These medications can be useful for our pets as well. Here, we are going to have an individual discussion on these medications.

Information On Gabapentin

A very anticonvulsant that manages severe nerve pain is Gabapentin. Its off-label uses are treatment for insomnia, alcohol withdrawal, cocaine withdrawal, headaches, hiccups, and so on. It is still not very clear how Gabapentin does its work. But we can say that it binds with the alpha unit of the calcium channel located in the cell’s plasma membrane, resulting in the reduction of the overactivity of nerves. You will need a doctor’s prescription to purchase this medication; this is not available over the counter because of its certain risk of abuse and addiction. Gabapentin is the generic name; its brand names are Neurontin, Horizant, and Grasile.

Information On Lyrica

Lyrica, brand name of Pregabalin, comes under the Gabapentoid class of medications. It treats conditions like nerve-related pains, certain seizures, and other nerve issues like spinal cord injuries, nerve issues caused by shingles, diabeties. Lyrica does not have a high risk of abuse, but still take it as directed by your medical professional. It works as it reduces the number of nerve signals to calm down the severity of nerve activity.

What Is The Difference Between Gabapentin And Lyrica?

Gabapentin and Lyrica have several similarities, but some aspects can make them unique and separate. This differentiation can help to identify which works better for nerve pain and is cost-effective. We are going to know the points to have a better idea.

Mechanism Difference Gabapentin vs Lyrica

We are still not very clear about how these two work, even though they are very similar to GABA, but they fulfill their work without having an impact on GABA. It is observed that, comparatively, Lyrica is absorbed faster in the body than Gabapentin.

Different Off-label Use

Off-label use is prescribing a medication for a treatment other than for which it is approved. If we notice, Gabapentin has more off-label uses than Lyrica. Lyrica can be taken for diabetic, spinal cord-related nerve issues, Fibromyalgia, etc. While Gabapentin is used for alcohol withdrawal, sleeplessness, stress-related issues, and so on.

Gabapentin vs Lyrica Dosage

Variations of dosages between Gabapentin and Lyrica are something that one should know if they are thinking about any of these as their nerve-pain reliever. While both have different dosages and their effectiveness, one thing that we have to say is that Lyrica is stronger than Gabapentin and shows effect quickly.

Gabapentin can be started at a lower amount, and it can be increased gradually based on the effect. It can also be cancelled if it starts showing its side effects. Though the amount of this medication is based on body condition, tolerance ability, and, most importantly, on the clinician’s judgment. The maximum dosage of this substance is 3600mg per day, and should not go beyond this. Never use Gabapentin dosage frequently or for longer than prescribed, which may be leads Gabapentin Addiction.

In comparison to Gabapentin, Lyrica shows its effectiveness at a lower dose. An average Lyrica dosage of 50 to 100mg, three times a day, can be taken. The maximum dosage should not cross 300mg per day in any case. Lyrica is more potent means it reaches the bloodstream faster. With food, it takes upto 3 to 3.2hours and without food, it takes roughly 40-90minutes.

Gabapentin vs Lyrica Side Effects

Both pain relievers can have potential side effects over time. One should know about them to understand these drugs better. However, both medications have recognizable side effects, as well as common ones. It will help you to identify at what cost these medicines are coming.

Side Effects of Gabapentin:

• Fatigue
• Sleepiness
• Bodypain
• Problem with clear vision
• Mild soreness in the throat
• Gaining weight
• Problem in speaking
• Slower breathe
• Depression
• Pale & yellowish skin

Side Effects Of Lyrica:

• Can cause diplopia
• Uncertainty in concentrating
• Sudden increasement of diet
• In some cases, heart failure can occur
• Swollen face, lips
• Imbalance from reality
• Extreme tiredness
• Consipation
• Body shaking
• Vomiting

Which Is Better, Gabapentin or Lyrica?

The question that can come to your mind must be ‘’ Is Gabapentin or Lyrica better?” It is better to have a healthcare professional’s opinion on deciding whether Gabapentin or Lyrica is better for oneself. Since this is a vital decision, it depends on many factors, such as whether a patient is looking for quick relief, then he should go for Lyrica, or if the patient is already having Lyrica and facing side effects, then Gabapentin would be safer. However, it is tough to say in one line which one will go well for you. Based on the factors, a healthcare provider can give you a good suggestion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can you take Gabapentin and Lyrica together?

Speaking in general, no. Since both are from the same category of drug (gabapentinoid) and follow a similar work process, a patient should not end up combining Lyrica and Gabapentin at the same time. It can lead to possible adverse effects and result in severe damage.

Can I go from Gabapentin to Lyrica?

Well, yes, sometimes if Gabapentin fails to relieve nerve pain or seizures, doctors do recommend Lyrica. The vice versa is also applicable, if the patient’s body fails to take Lyrica and shows side effects, doctors often prescribe Gabapentin.

Can Gabapentin or Lyrica be taken during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

The secretion of Lyrica in breastmilk or the effects of consuming this drug during pregnancy have not found till now. While secretion of Gabapentin in breastmilk is not negligible, so taking this drug during the time of pregnancy or breastfeeding should be under your medical monitoring only.

Which is cheaper in price, Gabapentin or Lyrica?

Gabapentin comes under budget and is cheaper than Lyrica. It is available all around the world, so there will not be any issue getting any. While Lyrica is more overpriced than Gabapentin.

Can I use Gabapentin or Lyrica for anxiety?

The answer is yes, Gabapentin and Lyrica can be taken in managing general anxiety-related disorders. Though it should be consumed while keeping an eye on the existing body conditions, and if any previous side effect records of consuming Gabapentin or Lyrica exist.

The Bottom Line

In managing neuropathic pain, both these medicines are widely popular and prescribed. Since both pain reliever acts similar ways and cause similar types of adverse effects. Still, you are confused about which one is better for you, then in case, you should fix approtement with your health professional. They will help to idenefied right one.