Lyrica (Pregabalin) for Anxiety?

[gypsylee]

Hey all,

I take this medication, Lyrica, for leg pain but apparently it's also used to treat Generalised Anxiety Disorder. I actually think it could be quite effective because it helps me sleep but doesn't have any noticeable side effects.

Wikipedia says "it appears to have anxiolytic effects similar to benzodiazepines with less risk of dependence." Well I disagree because I don't notice effects like benzos really but if I take it a couple of hours before bed it definitely makes me sleep better.

So I was curious as to whether anyone has been prescribed Lyrica for anxiety?

I'd rather be given that than some of what they prescribe for sure!

Bye for now :)
Gypsy x

[Dahila]

I am on Gabapentin for over two years, it is kind of similar, no side effects and it does help me to control my anxiety. For the last two years no panic attack

[gypsylee]

I am on Gabapentin for over two years, it is kind of similar, no side effects and it does help me to control my anxiety. For the last two years no panic attack

Yeah I read about Gabapentin. I had never heard of these medications before I got prescribed the Lyrica for pain. I only take a small amount compared to the dosages I read people take for anxiety but I can notice the anti-anxiety effects.

[Dahila]

My dosage is small too, small dosage helps with pain and anxiety, higher dosage is used in epilepsy

[1Bluerose68]

That sounds helpful. And better than benzos? I wanna try some!!!

[gypsylee]

That sounds helpful. And better than benzos? I wanna try some!!!

I don't think it's better than benzos short term but in the long term it is because you don't get so hooked on it and don't need more to get the same effect.

I've been on all sorts of meds for anxiety and I would recommend this to people. I don't think it's that great for pain but it helps me fall asleep and stay asleep, and I don't feel groggy in the morning.

Ask your doctor about it :)

[1Bluerose68]

How is it dosed, 1x per day at night?

[gypsylee]

How is it dosed, 1x per day at night?

Well I take it once a day, a few hours before bed. However I think the most effective way to take it is a couple of times a day and I read on some forums that's how people take it for anxiety.

[Dahila]

300 mg in the morning and 600 before bed