Research shows the anticonvulsant drug pregabalin—sold under the brand name Lyrica—causes suicidal ideation and behavior and angioedema. The Rottenstein Law Group compassionately advocates for those who have suffered from the harmful side effects of potentially dangerous drugs. If you’ve taken Lyrica and believe it harmed you, contact RLG for a free, confidential legal consultation immediately. We will evaluate your case and remain on the lookout for Lyrica recalls and Lyrica class action lawsuits. We might be the Lyrica law firm you are looking for. What Is Lyrica and What Is Prescribed For? Lyrica is the brand name for the drug pregabalin. Made and sold by U.S. pharmaceutical giant Pfizer, this prescription medication is used to treat neuropathic pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy, postherpetic neuralgia, partial onset seizures. It is also the first drug approved for treating fibromyalgia. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Lyrica in December 2004, and Pfizer sells it in 25 mg to 300 mg oral capsules. Lyrica is Pfizer’s third highest-selling drug by revenue; Pfizer earned more than $3 billion in Lyrica sales. Pfizer’s Lyrica patent will expire in 2013. Pfizer designed Lyrica to be the successor to the neuropathic pain reliever gabapentin. According to Lyrica’s label, “[T]he mechanism of action of pregabalin has not been fully elucidated.” Scientists believe Lyrica reduces the release of neurotransmitters that mediate pain signals from the brain. According to the BBC, Pfizer settled the largest ever fraud claim against the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) for $2.3 billion. Whistleblowers informed the DOJ that Pfizer was marketing various drugs, including Lyrica, for off-label uses. The DOJ and state attorneys general took on their cases under the False Claims Act. Pfizer signed a “corporate integrity agreement” with the United States government. Lyrica Suicidal Ideation and Behavioral Side Effects Although Lyrica’s packaging does not carry any of the FDA’s most serious warnings (i.e., “black box” warnings), it does cause some serious side effects. In late 2008, the FDA required antiepileptic manufacturers to include warnings on their drug labels stating that the drugs cause suicidal thoughts and behaviors in users. This requirement is based on a study of 199 placebo-controlled clinical trials that showed that antiepileptic users experienced suicidal thoughts at double the rate of the placebo population (0.43% vs. 0.24%). An unknown number of people reported to the FDA that they experienced angioedema while taking Lyrica. Angioedema is the term for swelling of the face, mouth, or neck. Neck swelling can be life-threatening. The most common general side effects, according to Lyrica’s label are: Dizziness; Blurred vision; Weight gain; Sleepiness; Skin hypersensitivity; Difficulty concentrating; Edema (swelling of the hands or feet); Dry mouth; Soreness and muscle pain; and Feeling “high.” Source
