What is the Difference Between Lyrica (Pregabalin) and Gabapentin (Neurontin)?

Lyrica (pregabalin) and Gabapentin (Neurontin) are both anti-epileptic medications used to treat nerve pain and belong to the same class of medicine called gabapentinoids. However, there are several differences between them:

Brand names: Lyrica is a brand name for pregabalin, while Gabapentin is a generic name with brand names such as Neurontin, Gralise, and Horizant.
Absorption and effectiveness: Lyrica is absorbed much better and faster than Gabapentin, starting to work faster (in about an hour) than Gabapentin, which takes longer to start working.
Uses: Both medications have similar uses, but Lyrica has more FDA-approved uses than Gabapentin.
Potential for abuse: The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) classifies Lyrica as a controlled substance, while Gabapentin is not currently scheduled as a controlled substance. However, there are documented cases of Gabapentin abuse.
Side effects: Both Lyrica and Gabapentin may cause serious side effects, such as seizures, and withdrawal symptoms if users suddenly stop taking them or reduce the dose.

It is essential not to switch between Lyrica and Gabapentin without consulting a doctor, as they are not interchangeable. Your doctor can help determine which medication is more suitable for your specific needs and condition.

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What is the Difference Between Lyrica (Pregabalin) and Gabapentin (Neurontin)?

Comparative Table: Lyrica (Pregabalin) vs Gabapentin (Neurontin)

Lyrica (pregabalin) and Gabapentin (Neurontin) are both anti-epileptic medications and treat nerve pain, but they have some differences. Here is a table comparing the two medications:

Feature	Lyrica (Pregabalin)	Gabapentin (Neurontin)
Brand Names	Lyrica, Lyrica CR	Neurontin, Gralise, Horizant
Active Ingredient	Pregabalin	Gabapentin
Absorption	Pregabalin is absorbed faster than gabapentin, reaching maximum levels in the blood within 1.5 hours	Gabapentin has a slower absorption rate
Bioavailability	Pregabalin has a bioavailability of 90%	Gabapentin has a bioavailability of 60%
Conditions Treated	Lyrica is indicated for the same uses as gabapentin, plus the management of fibromyalgia and neuropathic pain associated with diabetes	Gabapentin is primarily used for the treatment of partial-onset seizures and nerve pain
Pharmacodynamics	Pregabalin has an increased binding affinity for the alpha-2-delta protein and is a more potent drug	Gabapentin has a lower binding affinity and potency

Both Lyrica and Gabapentin belong to the same class of medicine (gabapentinoids) and have a shared mechanism of action, although experts are not exactly sure what the mechanism of action is. They are not interchangeable, and you cannot switch between them without consulting your doctor.

Guilherme Mazui

Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.