Lyrica Interactions Explained: Alcohol, Foods, and Drug Considerations

Pregabalin, marketed as Lyrica, is used to treat neuropathic pain (pain caused by damaged nerves) in your arms, fingers, hands, feet, legs, or toes if you have diabetes.

The FDA has approved pregabalin capsules, extended-release (long-acting) tablets, and oral solution (liquid) for the treatment of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN, the searing, stabbing pain that can continue for months or years after an episode of shingles).

Pregabalin oral solution and capsules are also used to treat fibromyalgia (a long-term disorder characterized by pain, muscle stiffness, discomfort, exhaustion, and difficulty falling or staying asleep).

They are used in combination with other drugs to treat specific types of seizures in children aged one month and up and adults. 

Lyrica belongs to the anticonvulsant drug class. It works by reducing the number of pain impulses sent out by the injured nerves in the body. 

This is accomplished by soothing your body’s hyperactive nerves.

Lyrica interacts with alcohol, other drugs, and several supplements. Let’s look at what you can eat and drink while taking Lyrica, as well as what foods you should avoid.

4 Foods To Avoid While On Lyrica (Pregabalin)

You may be wondering if Lyrica interacts with specific foods and beverages, such as grapefruit or caffeine-containing beverages. 

Lyrica has not been documented to interact with any foods or beverages. 

In general, you should limit or avoid the following foods while taking Lyrica for a healthy diet:

1. Foods heavy in fat
2. High sugar foods
3. Salty foods
4. Prepackaged or processed foods

Processed foods are typically low in nutrients and heavy in empty calories. Limit your fast food consumption to once a month to maintain a healthy diet.

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you want to learn more about eating specific foods or beverages while taking Lyrica.

6 Foods To Eat When Taking Lyrica

Eat a healthy, balanced diet while using Lyrica, as the drug can make you gain weight. Cook at home most days of the week to ensure nutritious, nutrient-rich meals.

Make sure to include plenty of the following:

• Fresh vegetables
• Fruits
• Whole-wheat cereal
• Lean proteins, such as fish, tofu, and chicken

Season your foods with herbs and spices to add flavor without adding calories.

Foods to avoid	Foods to eat
High-fat foods	Veggies
High-sugar foods	Fruits
Salty foods	Whole-wheat cereal
Processed foods	Lean protein

Should You Take Lyrica With Food?

Lyrica can be taken with or without food. It is recommended to take it consistently at the same time every day. 

Try to spread out your doses throughout the day. Lyrica should be taken whole with a glass of water or juice.

What Should You Not Take With Lyrica?

Certain food and beverages must be avoided while taking Lyrica. Below are some Lyrica interactions.

Lyrica With Alcohol

It is advisable to avoid consuming alcohol when on Lyrica. Some of the adverse effects of alcohol and Lyrica are the same, such as tiredness, dizziness, and poor coordination. 

Some people may also develop cognitive and judgment impairment. For this reason, you should avoid or limit your alcohol consumption while taking pregabalin.

Pregabalin should not be taken more than the specified amount, and you should avoid tasks that require mental alertness, such as operating dangerous machinery or driving, until you know how the medicine affects you.

If you consume alcohol, you should consult your doctor before starting Lyrica. If you have any questions or concerns, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Lyrica And Caffeine

Lyrica does not appear to interact with caffeine. Caffeine can be present in various foods and beverages, including dark chocolate and coffee. It’s also available as a supplement.

Lyrica should be safe to consume with any of these caffeine sources. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have additional questions about mixing Lyrica and caffeine.

Drugs That Interact With Lyrica

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about any prescription, over-the-counter, or other medications you are taking before beginning Lyrica treatment. 

By sharing this information with them, you may be able to avoid potential interactions.

The following medications may interact with Lyrica. Keep in mind that this list does not cover all of the medications that may interact with pregabalin.

Medications that can increase the risk of side effects from pregabalin:

• Naloxone and buprenorphine (Suboxone).
• Quetiapine (Seroquel).
• Hydroxyzine (Vistaril).
• Cyclobenzaprine (Amrix).
• Thiazolidinediones – rosiglitazone (Avandia), pioglitazone (Actos).

Can enhance the risk of side effects from gabapentin and pregabalin:

• Gabapentin (Neurontin).

Can enhance the risk of side effects from pregabalin and opioids:

• Opioids – methadone (Methadose), tramadol (Ultram, others).

Could enhance the risk of side effects from pregabalin and benzodiazepines:

• Benzodiazepines – clonazepam (Klonopin), alprazolam (Xanax).

Can enhance the risk of side effects from sleep drugs and pregabalin:

• “sleep” drugs – eszopiclone (Lunesta), zolpidem (Ambien)

Here’s a closer look at the vital drug interactions of Lyrica.

Lyrica And Supplements

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about any supplements, herbs, or vitamins you use before starting Lyrica treatment. By sharing this information with them, you may be able to avoid potential interactions.

See your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns regarding potential drug interactions.

Vitamins and Lyrica

There have been no reported interactions between Lyrica and vitamins. However, consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking any of these products while taking Lyrica.

Herbs and Lyrica

Lyrica and the plant valerian root can interact. This root is frequently used to alleviate anxiety and improve sleep.

Both valerian root and Lyrica can produce similar side effects, such as tiredness and dizziness. 

Taking Lyrica and valerian root in combination may increase your chances of experiencing these adverse effects.

If you take valerian root, you should tell your doctor before starting Lyrica. They will most likely closely watch you for side effects. If you experience extreme sleepiness or dizziness while taking Lyrica, your doctor may advise you to discontinue using valerian root.

Medical Conditions Where Lyrica Might Be Contraindicated

Certain medical conditions and other factors may enhance the likelihood of Lyrica interactions. 

Before taking Lyrica, consult your doctor about your medical history. Lyrica may not be your best treatment option if you have certain medical illnesses or other factors impacting your health.

There are 6 disease interactions with Lyrica (pregabalin) which include:

• Suicidal tendency.
• Drug dependence.
• Creatine kinase elevations.
• Angioedema.
• Pr interval prolongation.
• Peripheral edema.

In addition, Lyrica may interact with the following medical conditions or factors:

Breathing problems

Lyrica can produce respiratory depression as a side effect in rare situations, which can be fatal. 

If you already have a breathing problem, taking Lyrica may raise your risk of this side effect. 

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma are two examples of breathing issues that may interact with Lyrica. 

Your doctor can tell you whether Lyrica is safe to take or if an alternative medicine is better.

Heart problems

Lyrica can cause edema and fluid retention in your feet, hands, and legs. Fluid retention and swelling may aggravate an existing cardiac ailment, such as congestive heart failure. 

Furthermore, Lyrica can cause long QT syndrome, which can exacerbate pre-existing heart issues. 

Based on your heart health and any heart problems you may have, your doctor can help assess whether Lyrica is safe for you to take.

Kidney problems

When you take Lyrica, your kidneys help you get rid of it. If you have renal disorders or problems, such as chronic kidney disease, your body may struggle to eliminate Lyrica. 

This can cause the medicine level in your body to rise, increasing your risk of adverse effects. 

Your doctor would most likely recommend a lower Lyrica dose if you have a kidney condition.

History of alcohol or drug misuse

Lyrica may induce a “high” or euphoria (extreme excitement or enjoyment) in certain people. 

To experience these experiences, the medication is occasionally abused. If you have a history of alcohol or drug abuse, consult your doctor before beginning Lyrica medication. They can tell you whether taking the drug is safe for you.

Pregnancy

It is unknown whether using Lyrica while pregnant is safe. If you are pregnant or intend to become pregnant, consult your doctor before beginning Lyrica therapy.

Breastfeeding

It is not advised to breastfeed when using Lyrica. Consult your doctor about safe alternatives.

Allergic reaction

Your doctor would not prescribe Lyrica if you have experienced an allergic response to it or any of its constituents.

Depression and other mental health conditions

Like other seizure medications, Lyrica may raise the risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors. 

If you have a mental health issue, such as depression, you may be more susceptible to this adverse effect than usual. 

It is critical to consult your doctor about whether Lyrica is appropriate for you based on your mental health.

How Can I Prevent Interactions With Lyrica?

Certain precautions can be taken to help prevent interactions with Lyrica. Your doctor and pharmacist are valuable resources, so consult with them before beginning treatment. 

You should, for example, plan to do the following:

• Inform them whether you use alcohol or use cannabis.
• Inform them of any other medications you are taking, as well as herbs, supplements, and vitamins.
• Make a list of medications your doctor and pharmacist can help you fill out.

It’s also critical to read the Lyrica label and any other papers that come with the medication. 

Colored stickers mentioning an interaction may be applied to the label. And the paperwork, often known as the prescribing information or drug guide, may include information concerning interactions.

Please contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions about this information. You can also help prevent Lyrica interactions by taking it exactly as your doctor prescribes.

Why Is Lyrica A Controlled Substance?

The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) classifies Lyrica as a classification V (Schedule 5) prohibited substance, the lowest classification for abuse potential. 

This is due to claims of euphoria, increased happiness, enthusiasm, or tranquility, and a “high” akin to marijuana with pregabalin use.

Lyrica, on the other hand, is not known to be active in receptor regions associated with drugs of addiction. 

While the abuse potential of Lyrica is lower than that of other controlled pharmaceuticals, it is nevertheless higher than that of non-controlled prescription or over-the-counter drugs. 

Pregabalin was added to the list as a precaution for those who use the medicine.

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Conclusion

Lyrica (pregabalin) is an FDA-approved drug for treating neuropathic pain in diabetes. While the drug may not interact with most foods, it is best to avoid alcohol.  

Lyrica and alcohol have similar effects, and combining the two may exacerbate the drug’s adverse reactions.

The drug interacts with several medications, so it’s best to inform your doctor about what drugs you use. People with certain medical conditions also should avoid Lyrica.

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