This effect could lead to less motivation to exercise. The narcotics relieve pain but drag you down and cause drowsiness. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 75,634 times. I got into CBT, Medidation, Deep Breathing, Crystals,Aromatherapy,Deep tissue massage and I became a Reiki Master.It gives you a more positive outlook and out of the victim role.Don't dwell on the person you used to be. It's basically protein, vegetables, some yogurt, some fat (no sugar, no desserts or snack foods). To help others get a better understanding of your situation, you may want to include information about your dosage, how long you had been taking it, whether you took other medications, and other possible factors that may have influenced your weight. That must be frustrating having this weight gain after starting your neuropathy medications. Some experts recommend a healthy diet and exercise. Reduce your total calorie intake by eating smaller portions, choosing low-fat foods and avoiding desserts and high-calorie beverages. I eat a lot of salmon, cheese, bananas, tuna, beans and lentils, which are foods loaded with vitamin B6. He maxed out the dose and it interfered with my decision making. Look up healthy recipes online or in a cookbook so you can integrate them into your meals. I have heard the longer you are on it the more possibility of permanent weight gain and other side effects. Peggy. They teach all types of techniques but it's not for diagnosing or getting pain meds. Some believe that the majority of weight gained is a result of the drug causing increased water retention, while others believe that the drug slows metabolism and can beef up a persons appetite. In studies, 9% of Lyrica-treated patients and 2% of placebo (inactive treatment) patients gained 7% or more compared to their weight at the beginning of the study. I saw a post somewhere that said that one of the issues with this Lyrica weight gain was fluid retention. Weight gain from medication is not uncommon, and while it can be challenging to deal with, it is often manageable. Those who are taking drugs with this side effect should pay close attention to their lifestyle habits. I have been on Pregabalin for 3 years now, for nightly anxiety headaches, which wake me at 6.00am every morning. Ive worked out so hard and so much that I literally have hurt the inside of my ankle bone. I was shocked to read your post, due to our health similarities. I found a recommendation for a daily dose of a combination of 600 mg of Alpha Lipoic Acid and 100 mg of B-1. Just a word of warning people don't enjoy hearing complaints. (It really messed with my coordination) For about nine years, I have been prescribed Lyrica. I have back problems, that worsened with the weight gain. My weight is where I want it to be so I have been watching it carefully to see what happens. Although it has helped my symptoms, I have gained 25 pounds in the last six months. I ran into this a little when I first went gung ho with Weight Watchers years ago. In some cases, it is possible to lower the dosage of the medication that is causing weight gain and still get relief from the symptoms of the condition that it is treating. Look into local support group(s) for perhaps your religious background and/or Fibromyalgia and back pain. Im always bloated on top of that. I couldn't have done this without him.I wish you strength! Find out more about how to lose weight. Remember if you miss a day of your prescribed exercises you may start over with pain, that is how important this is. By using our site, you agree to our. It's basically protein, vegetables, some", "I saw my doctor today - I haven't gained weight since I started taking just Lyrica", "@pfbacon Hello Peggy, I was reading your post about living with neuropathy. It can be difficult to confirm the link between weight gain and medication use, especially if the increase in weight is gradual. Note: The author of this site is not engaged in rendering professional advice or services to the individual reader. Not that they don't care but they feel helpless. Also have a goal to stop the narcotics (norco robaxin) by working with your doctor to prevent withdrawal. Drugs.com provides accurate and independent information on more than 24,000 prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines and natural products. Some medications, such as corticosteroids, cause weight gain by altering the bodys metabolism and influencing water and electrolyte balances. Lyrica - is there any way to avoid the weight gain? Lyrica is used for: The extra weight killed them and I couldn't run or exercise like I used to do.I weaned off of it because it didn't work. Peggy. I didn't care to even shower much less exercise. As part of their dietary guidelines for the prevention and management of medication-related weight gain, the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry recommend that people drink several large glasses of water during the day. Lyrica information for Healthcare Professionals. I used Lyrica a few years ago and gained weight. I might be able to stop all of the medications Yay! Lyrica is a capsule taken in two divided doses daily. I lose a lot of water and sodium as I have a liquid output. Patients with diabetes treated with Lyrica gained an average of 1.6 kg (3.5 lb) compared to 0.3 kg (0.66 lb) in the placebo-treated patients. LYRICA is also indicated to treat partial onset seizures in patients 4 years of age and older with epilepsy who take 1 or more other drugs for seizures. Lyrica (Pregabalin) is a drug that is approved for the treatment of neuropathic pain as well as partial seizures in adults. A small Japanese study offered the following adverse reactions (Pain Research & Management, Nov-Dec, 2014): The official prescribing information presents data from a number of clinical trials. I believe I got fibromyalgia due to the accident. im SO sorry that you are going through all this.I am 84 years of age and in constant pain due to arthritis, fibromyalgia, polymyalgia, and spinal deterioration, all due to back surgery for a compressed spinal cord.I had taken Lyrica years ago and didn't gain a pound, but this time after only being it again all I want to do is eat :( Ive only been on it again 3 days and have gained 2 pounds. There are many theories in regards to how Lyrica may cause weight gain. Again, I cannot say whether this was because of the increased activity that my stimulator allowed me to do or because I switched medications. Others taking the medication may experience an increase in their weight and/or BMI (body mass index), but the increase may not be of clinical significance. Ive been on Lyrica for six years now for my fibromyalgia. Accessed Nov. 11, 2020 at https://www.lyrica.com/frequently-asked-questions, Lyrica [product information. But looking back now I'm glad I did it. Think more in terms of protein, healthy fats and vegetables to stay away from carbohydrate craving. Pregabalin (Lyrica) has become a go-to drug for nerve pain (neuropathy). I also started taking 275mg of vitamin B6 and 150 mg of magnesium citrate. Losing weight effectively and keeping it down involves a number of factors. Lack of energy is another component to this triad. Oh honey! How long before it starts working? . 3. within your first year of treatment. in Nursing from the University of Phoenix in 2013. Before you blame a drug for all of your weight gain, make a conscious effort to be healthy so that you truly know whether the Lyrica is responsible for your extra baggage. He helped me realize that all these medications were working more against me than helping me. While Lyrica may certainly be culpable for the weight that youve packed on, it is not the only influential factor. joint or muscle pain. In 2016, I was on 150mgs of Lyrica twice a day for 10 months for sciatic pain. Many people like to place blame on Lyrica, when in fact another drug like an SSRI and/or an antipsychotic may be responsible for their major weight gain. Last medically reviewed on July 27, 2020, Most antidepressant medications cause weight gain as a side effect. The usual dose is 2.5 milligram per kilogram (mg/kg) per day given in 2 or 3 divided doses. I fully understand the pain you suffer and depression from work related injury the worst right now is I can't lose weight because if I go off lyrica I have tingling in feet so I'm stuck with weight and that adds to pain damned if you do if you don't. How long does Lyrica stay in your system? Peggy, I saw my doctor today I haven't gained weight since I started taking just Lyrica without the Gabapentin. Also make sure you make time to sleep and rest. Any use of this site constitutes your agreement to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and Conditions of Use linked below. Can diet help improve depression symptoms? fast heartbeat. Some studies put the incidence of dizziness around 20 to 30 percent. Reduced . I hope this correspondence is helpful to you and wish you as happy a Christmas as you can have under your circumstances. Other medications Connect with thousands of patients and caregivers for support and answers. If you suffer from seizures, nerve issues, or fibromyalgia, you may be prescribed Lyrica. Joe Graedon is a pharmacologist who has dedicated his career to making drug information understandable to consumers. Like others, my menopause was also a factor in weight gain/plateau. Your doctor may recommend you take these to help reduce your weight while you are on Lyrica. If you live around a pain center you may try pain rehab. Again talk to your PCP about this. Remember we are not alone. My pcp did blood ak my ANA came back positive possibly meaning I have Lupus. There arent many medications in the doctors tool kit for this kind of problem. I have since had a nerve stimulator implanted which helped with the scoliosis but not with the overall fibromyalgia. The Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance recommend increasing protein intake if medication-related weight gain is a concern. I suffered until a neurologist prescribed Lyrica twice a day. Im willing to try other medicines to get relief from that as I start having back problems when I gain (Im already having sciatica and Ive only gained 10 pounds). People experience different side effects when taking different drugs. NOT to get you off of pain pills but to give you better coping skills. Next post: Amitriptyline & Weight Gain: The Reason 50% Discontinue Treatment, Previous post: Provigil (Modafinil) & Weight Loss: How It Works. We comply with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information. I fought it for a while then started cymbalta 60mg at night. Take care xoCindy59, Hi my name is Maria I just started taking lyrica so I don't know if I'll gain weight but I do know that iron makes you gain alot of weight try to change the way you eat so you won't be enemic another condition you have is lupis I believe I have a friend who has lived along time so don't give up your too young praying helps alot he always hears us he doesn't give us more than we can take hang in there I lost 70lbs for a total knee replacement by using this app it's called mynetdiary try it's really good if you want to talk you could call me at 3235340268 a friend Maria. Try to find a good pain dr. Take a cycling class at your local gym or invest in a good bike and go for long rides outside. Inhale for a count of 5 through your nose and exhale through your nose for a count of 5. As the day goes on my stomach gets worse and more bloated. I noticed swelling when my dosage increased to 300mg daily. They became the most important thing to me. People who are concerned about weight gain on medication can speak to their doctor about possible side effects. When you do not drink enough, your kidneys may retain water, which can result in bloating and water weight gain. So, you've been told you have neuropathy, nerve pain or restless legs (all three can affect your feet and legs), and you may have been prescribed Lyrica. All matters regarding your health require medical supervision. Let us know the name of the thingy when you remember. Certainly not everyone will experience noticeable weight gain on this medication, but between 10% and 24% of people do. I have a job for the 1st time in 10 years. In this time, I gained about 6kgs but could continue to work in a job where I have to sit at a desk all day. I hate to leave my house because people are always coming up to me asking me how far along I am. She is a former contributing editor for "ePregnancy" magazine and a current editor for a natural food magazine. Others, antidepressants included, may cause changes in mood, which lead to increased appetite. I just want you to not give up hope!! Amitriptyline (Elavil) Withdrawal Symptoms + How Long Do They Last? Weight gain is surprisingly common among people taking Lyrica. Lyrica is also linked with an increase in appetite and fluid retention. At first, I didnt think that it was the Lyrica. Physical activity: How much physical activity do adults need? Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. Engaging in aerobic exercise for at least 30 minutes on most days of the week, combined with 15 minutes of weight training once or twice a week, is most effective for weight loss. In a 2008 study, patients taking Lyrica for epilepsy, gained approximately 4 kg (8 lb) in a 3 to 6-month . I will say a prayer for you too dear. Weight gain was not associated with clinically important changes in blood pressure in short-term controlled studies, but the long-term effects of weight gain on heart safety due to Lyrica are unknown. @pfbacon Hello Peggy, I was reading your post about living with neuropathy. Do deep breathing in the morning before you start your day or during your lunch break. Sounds benign. Another important thing to keep in mind is whether you are on any other medications, supplements, or use drugs. Always keep in mind that when you double the dose of this drug, you are also potentially doubling the unwanted side effects (e.g. Is the ketogenic diet right for autoimmune conditions? Hi Carte. In studies that were 14 weeks long in adults, 9% of Lyrica-treated patients and 2% of placebo (inactive treatment) patients gained 7% or more over their weight at the beginning of the study. His best-selling book, The Peoples Pharmacy, was published in 1976 and led to a syndicated newspaper column, syndicated public radio show and web site. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. At the same time as the stimulator implant I switched insurance and my new insurance would not cover the Lyrica. I cant recall the name either. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. When talking to your PCP ask about starting Cymbalta (duloxetine). I would love to talk to someone who can relate to what im going thru :(. Provigil (Modafinil) & Weight Loss: How It Works, Pantoprazole (Protonix) vs. Omeprazole (Prilosec), Lexapro (Escitalopram) vs. Prozac (Fluoxetine), Pregabalin (Lyrica) vs. Gabapentin (Neurontin). Let me know if you were able to solve the weight issue, and if so, how. I've been living on the medical diet for hypoglycemia since 1987. Recently I gained 65 pounds within a two-month period. I appreciate any tips on what worked for you. I have been there myself. If you feel your weight gain is causing other health issues that outweigh the benefits of Lyrica, you may decide to go off of the drug. Weight loss may occur once a person stops taking their medication. I knew this was going to happen since I researched this medication. Next evaluate whether the therapeutic benefit outweighs the side effects that youve experienced such as weight gain, dizziness, and low energy. This will help your body fall into a regular sleep pattern and ensure you get quality sleep each night. I'm still in process after 6 shoulder surgeries and I can relate to all of the above. Try searching for what you seek or ask your own question. Understanding that weight gain is a possible side effect is the first step in combatting it. Sign up for wikiHow's weekly email newsletter. Antipsychotics stimulate appetite and can cause food cravings. They think I have an overlap syndrome which is a sort of mixed connective tissue disorder that has yet to present. My pain is terrible to the point where I take Zofran for nausea. Seven patterns were developed and used for exploratory 'change point . People on antidepressants, for instance, may find that they have an increased appetite because their mood has improved. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. (2020). Here are some ways to lose weight gained due to medication use: 1. Children 1 month of age and older weighing 30 kilograms (kg) or moreUse is based on body weight and must be determined by your doctor. Exercise can also help prevent symptoms of depression from returning when people combine it with antidepressant medication. Under the current dose of 225 mg daily. Four years ago my GP put me on Lyrica because the nerve pain in my feet was keeping me awake at night. Haddad, P. (2017). Avoid unhealthy snacks like chips, cookies, cake, or fried foods. Ive been taking 600 mg a day for the last two years. Drugs.com provides accurate and independent information on more than 24,000 prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines and natural products. Exercise to keep the muscles limber and strong is turning out to be one of the major treatments for fibromyalgia and neuropathic pain. I was shocked to read your post, due to our health similarities. Although the drug can be highly effective for some individuals in the treatment of various types of pain, as well as reducing the occurrence of seizures, many people are dissatisfied with the drugs side effect profile. One reader wants to know what to do about Lyrica and weight gain. per week is the most sensible for permanent weight loss. When you do eat out, opt for the healthy items on the menu. Buy Lyrica Pregabalin Generic 150/75 mg Buy Lyrica Tablets Online Pharmacy Sale You should point out to your medical professional any of the following clinical conditions you need to make certain your therapy goes as it needs to Lyrica Generic Name(s): pregabalin . You will lose the weight. If you ended up gaining weight, feel free to mention how much you gained, why you think you gained it, as well as any strategies you found helpful for reducing it. And I got disability after fighting for it for 2 years. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/1e\/Avoid-Gaining-Weight-While-Taking-Lyrica-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Avoid-Gaining-Weight-While-Taking-Lyrica-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/1e\/Avoid-Gaining-Weight-While-Taking-Lyrica-Step-1.jpg\/aid9613114-v4-728px-Avoid-Gaining-Weight-While-Taking-Lyrica-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"