All antiepileptic drugs have corresponding central side effects due to their central nervous system effect. These include: Furthermore, Lyrica® has a sedative effect, which in some cases is a desired side effect of the therapy. Because of these central side effects, Lyrica® is used gradually with a slow dose adjustment.
If side effects of this kind occur, no further dose increase should be made. In some cases, the dosage must first be reduced. As a rule, the above-mentioned side effects usually subside under continuous administration.
- Vertigo,
- Concentration problems,
- Tiredness,
- Gang uncertainty and double images.
Blood count changes
In addition to the central nervous system side effects, Lyrica® can also change the blood count. In some cases, the leukocytes can drop sharply (leukopenia). This leads to an extremely high susceptibility to infections, since the immune system functions almost exclusively through the white blood cells.
If the leukocyte count is below 3500 Leukozytenμl or if the thrombocyte count drops sharply at the same time (thrombopenia), the preparation must be discontinued immediately. Lyrica® can also cause gastrointestinal complaints such as liver toxicity and an increase in transaminases. These are signs of liver damage.
For this reason the transaminases (GOT, GPT, GGT) must be checked regularly. If the increase exceeds 3 times the norm, the drug must be discontinued.
- Nausea,
- Vomiting,
- Abdominal pain and changes in appetite may occur.
Water retention
Water retention may occur when taking Lyrica®. This often occurs in the arms and legs, as well as in the tissue. Less frequently, water retention occurs in the abdomen or lungs or in other areas of the body.
Under side effects with unknown frequency water retention in the face has been reported. In technical jargon, water retention is called edema and can occur due to an imbalance of the electrolytes sodium and potassium. This means that Lyrica® may cause potassium deficiency or sodium accumulation in some people.
This can lead, among other things, to water retention. Since the drug is excreted through the kidneys as much as possible, this could also indicate that the kidneys are overtaxed. A check of electrolyte levels and kidney functions may be useful. The dose of Lyrica® should be adjusted accordingly.
