Lyrica, known generically as pregabalin, is a medication often prescribed to manage certain types of nerve pain, seizures, and generalized anxiety disorder. It functions by calming overactive nerve signals in the body.
Understanding Lyrica’s Pre-Surgical Role
Lyrica is commonly administered before surgery to address two primary concerns: reducing pre-operative anxiety and contributing to effective post-operative pain management. Pregabalin can help alleviate the heightened anxiety many patients experience leading up to a surgical procedure.
Beyond anxiety reduction, pregabalin plays a role in a “multimodal” approach to pain relief. This strategy combines different types of pain medications to achieve better overall pain control while potentially reducing the need for higher doses of opioid painkillers after surgery. Studies indicate that preoperative administration of pregabalin can lead to reduced acute postoperative pain and decreased consumption of analgesics.
How Lyrica Affects the Body for Surgery
Pregabalin works by binding to a specific part of voltage-gated calcium channels in the central nervous system, specifically the alpha-2-delta subunit. This action reduces the influx of calcium into nerve terminals, which in turn decreases the release of excitatory neurotransmitters like glutamate, norepinephrine, and substance P. By inhibiting these neurotransmitters, pregabalin helps to calm overactive nerve signals in the brain and spinal cord, reducing pain transmission and alleviating anxiety.
Though classified as an anticonvulsant, its ability to modulate nerve activity also makes it useful in treating neuropathic pain, which is pain arising from nerve damage. The drug is rapidly absorbed after oral administration, with high bioavailability.
Potential Side Effects to Be Aware Of
Lyrica can cause side effects. Common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, blurred vision, swelling in the arms and legs (peripheral edema), or weight gain. These milder side effects frequently diminish within a few weeks as the body adjusts to the medication.
Less common but more serious side effects can occur, such as severe allergic reactions or mood changes. Allergic reactions might manifest as skin rash, hives, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, arms, or legs, and can sometimes lead to trouble breathing. Report any unusual or severe symptoms, including new or worsening depression, thoughts of self-harm, or significant confusion, to the medical team immediately.
Preparing to Take Lyrica Before Surgery
When preparing to take Lyrica before surgery, follow the prescribed dosage and timing instructions precisely. It is typically taken a few hours before the scheduled procedure. It can be taken with or without food; however, if stomach upset occurs, taking it with food may help.
Avoid alcohol while taking pregabalin, as it can increase nervous system side effects like dizziness, drowsiness, and impaired judgment. Inform your surgical team about all medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal products, and supplements. This helps the medical team identify potential drug interactions and adjust treatment plans. Do not stop taking any other prescribed medications unless specifically instructed by your doctor, as abruptly discontinuing some medications can lead to adverse effects.