See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lyrica

Is it Safe to Consume Alcohol While Taking Lyrica?

Lyrica (pregabalin) is a prescription medication used to treat epilepsy, fibromyalgia, and neuropathic pain. While it is generally well-tolerated, combining Lyrica with alcohol can increase the risk of adverse effects. In this article, we will explore the potential risks and interactions between Lyrica and alcohol.

What are the Risks of Combining Lyrica and Alcohol?

According to the FDA-approved label for Lyrica, the medication can impair cognitive function, judgment, and motor skills. When combined with alcohol, these effects can be exacerbated, increasing the risk of accidents, falls, and other injuries. Additionally, Lyrica can cause dizziness, drowsiness, and confusion, which can be worsened by alcohol consumption.

What are the Potential Interactions?

Lyrica is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant, and alcohol is also a CNS depressant. When combined, these substances can amplify each other's effects, leading to increased sedation, dizziness, and impaired cognitive function. This can be particularly problematic for individuals who are taking Lyrica for conditions such as epilepsy, as the combination may increase the risk of seizures.

What are the Recommendations?

The manufacturer of Lyrica, Pfizer, recommends avoiding the use of Lyrica with alcohol. The FDA-approved label for Lyrica also warns against the use of the medication with other CNS depressants, including alcohol. Additionally, the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) recommends that individuals who are taking medications, including Lyrica, should avoid consuming alcohol or limit their consumption to moderate levels.

What are the Consequences of Ignoring the Recommendations?

Ignoring the recommendations and combining Lyrica with alcohol can have serious consequences. In severe cases, the combination may lead to respiratory depression, coma, or even death. Additionally, the increased risk of accidents, falls, and other injuries can result in serious harm or even permanent disability.

Conclusion

In conclusion, combining Lyrica with alcohol is not recommended due to the potential risks of adverse effects, interactions, and increased risk of accidents and injuries. Individuals taking Lyrica should avoid consuming alcohol or limit their consumption to moderate levels. It is essential to follow the recommendations of the manufacturer, FDA-approved label, and healthcare provider to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Highlight

"The combination of pregabalin (Lyrica) and ethanol (alcohol) may increase the risk of adverse effects, including dizziness, drowsiness, and impaired cognitive function."

Source: DrugPatentWatch.com

Sources

1. FDA. (2020). Lyrica (pregabalin) Prescribing Information.
2. Pfizer. (2020). Lyrica (pregabalin) Product Label.
3. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (2020). Drinking and Medications.
4. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Pregabalin (Lyrica) Patent Expiration.