Pregabalin (Lyrica) may not be the right choice for every patient. In such cases, it is important to discuss with a medical provider potential pregabalin alternatives.
Pregabalin Alternatives
What are your options when it comes to alternatives for pregabalin?
For Anxiety and GAD (Generalized Anxiety Disorder)
For those who cannot take pregabalin for anxiety or GAD, several other medications are available. These include antidepressants, such as escitalopram (Lexapro), duloxetine (Cymbalta), and paroxetine (Paxil), as well as benzodiazepines for short-term use. Buspirone is another anti-anxiety medication that may be used as an alternative to pregabalin.
For more information, please see our page on taking pregabalin for anxiety.
For Fibromyalgia
Individuals with fibromyalgia who are unable to take pregabalin may have other medications to consider for easing pain and other symptoms. These include other anticonvulsant medications, such as gabapentin, as well as duloxetine (Cymbalta) and other antidepressants. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, might also provide short-term relief from fibromyalgia symptoms in those who cannot take pregabalin.
For Nerve Pain
Those who have neuropathy or other causes of nerve pain and cannot take pregabalin have other medications to discuss with their doctor for pain relief. Some of these include other anticonvulsant medications, such as gabapentin, and doxepin (Silenor) and other tricyclic antidepressants. Other antidepressants, such as duloxetine (Cymbalta), might also be alternatives to pregabalin for nerve pain. Over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen, might also be used for temporary relief.
For Bipolar Disorder
Those who have bipolar disorder and need an alternative for pregabalin have other options to consider. Some of these medication options include antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and antipsychotics, such as aripiprazole (Abilify) or olanzapine (Zyprexa). Mood stabilizing medications, such as lamotrigine (Lamictal) might also be considered.
For Sleep and Insomnia
Individuals with sleep problems, such as insomnia, have other options to consider if they are unable to take pregabalin. These may include prescription sleeping pills for temporary use, such as eszopiclone (Lunesta) and zolpidem (Ambien).
For Cats
Veterinarians sometimes use pregabalin to treat epilepsy or other seizure disorders in cats. When pregabalin cannot be used, other anticonvulsant options are available, such as gabapentin and clorazepate. Other medications used for treating seizure disorders in cats include levetiracetam and phenobarbital.
NOTE: Never give any medications to animals unless instructed by a veterinarian.
Disclaimer: this article does not constitute or replace medical advice. If you have an emergency or a serious medical question, please contact a medical professional or call 911 immediately. To see our full medical disclaimer, visit our Terms of Use page.
