Lyrica is a brand of pregabalin, a prescription medicine used for specific nerve-pain conditions, epilepsy and, in some countries, generalized anxiety disorder. It can cause physical dependence and addiction, including during prescribed use. Understanding these different risks helps people seek appropriate care without assuming that everyone who takes the medicine has an addiction.
Pregabalin is a Schedule V controlled substance in the United States; legal classifications vary elsewhere. Physical dependence means that reducing or stopping treatment can cause withdrawal. Addiction involves impaired control and continued use despite harm. Dependence does not inevitably become addiction, and neither is a reason to change a prescription without a clinical plan.
If someone has slow or difficult breathing, cannot be awakened or has a seizure, call the local emergency number immediately. Pregabalin overdose and combinations with other sedating substances can be dangerous. Suspected overdose needs urgent poison-service or emergency advice, even before severe symptoms develop.
