Let's take a minute to talk about your medication.

This is Lyrica. It helps relieve certain types of pain, like nerve pain. It can also help control partial onset seizures. This medicine may have other uses, too. 

You should take Lyrica exactly as your doctor tells you to. You can take it with or without food. 

Common side effects include a dry mouth, an increased appetite and weight gain. You could feel a little tired, dizzy or unable to focus. These effects are normal if they are mild and should go away. You should wait until you know how this medicine affects you before you do activities that require you to be alert, like driving. Tell your doctor if you notice blurry vision or swelling in your hands or feet. If these or other side effects become reasons you want to stop taking this medicine, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist. You should not stop taking this medicine unless your doctor says it's okay.

As with any medicine, more serious side effects could occur. With Lyrica, these include serious allergic reactions and even thoughts of suicide. Pay close attention to your mood, behavior, thoughts and feelings and call your doctor right away if you notice any worrisome changes. It is very important to read the Medication Guide for full information about these and other side effects. To help keep this medicine safe for you, your doctor will follow your condition closely.

Lyrica can interact with other medicines. You should check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking other medicines. Also, you should not drink alcohol.

Lyrica is not safe for unborn babies. Both men and women must talk to their doctors about which birth control methods to use. Women should not breastfeed.

For best results with Lyrica, plan ahead for refills.