Manic depressive disorder or bipolar disorder is a condition of the brain characterized by unusual changes in energy, mood, and levels of activities. An individual suffering from bipolar disorder experiences distinct episodes of joyfulness and ecstasy as well as states of hopelessness and depression. The former condition is known as mania and the latter is called depression. At certain times when both conditions of joyfulness as well as sadness exist side by side, it is called a mixed state. Patients suffering from bipolar disorder have outbursts of irritability and mood swings, delusions, and hallucinations. The individual develops relationship problems, may indulge in substance abuse or alcohol and has deteriorated work performance.
According to the nature, degree or extent of severity of the condition, bipolar disorder is mainly classified as under:
Lyrica is the brand name for the drug called pregabalin. Pregabalin belongs to the category of anticonvulsant drugs, mainly used in treating neuropathic pain as well as partial seizures. Pregabalin was specifically approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2007 for the treatment of fibromyalgia. Earlier in December 2004, this drug got approval from U.S. FDA for use in diabetic neuropathy pain, epilepsy and post – herpetic neuralgia. Pregabalin was originally created by a chemist by the name of Richard Bruce Silverman at United States Northwestern University.
Lyrica or Pregabalin has also proved to be effective for treating “generalized anxiety disorders” in Europe. Off label uses of Lyrica in U.S.A include for bipolar disorder, migraine headache, multiple sclerosis, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Lyrica is sold by Pfizer and was created as a potent successor to Neurontin (gabapentin).
Lyrica and Neurontin both follow the same mode of action. They bind to calcium channels as well as modulate calcium influx. They also influence GABergic neurotransmission. This action mechanism of the drug makes it an anti – epileptic, with analgesic as well as anxiolytic effects. Lyrica (pregabalin) works by changing the chemical composition of the brain cells that transmit pain signals throughout the nervous system, specifically glutamate, noradrenaline and substance P. Lyrica has higher potency than Neurontin and thus works at fewer doses.
Some clinical studies conducted over patients with anxiety disorder have proved that Lyrica (pregabalin) offered more quick relief of psychosomatic symptoms compared to venlafaxine. The study also showed that Lyrica worked as efficiently as alprazolam (a benzodiazepine) in lowering the psychosomatic symptoms associated with anxiety disorders. Lyrica blends in the advantages of both benzodiazepines and antidepressants.
Dosage and other detailsLyrica should be taken by mouth either twice or thrice a day for treating bipolar disorder. The specific dosage of the drug is dependent on the patient’s individual medical condition as well as his response to the treatment. The medication may be taken with food or even without. Initially when starting on the medication the doctor usually increases the dosage steadily to make the side effects slowly fade away. Lyrica must be taken regularly without fail to get the best advantage out of it. The drug effectively works within the system when a constant level of the medicine is maintained throughout without dropping any dose. Thus it is recommended that Lyrica should be spaced out at regular intervals spreading over day and night.
Possible side effectsThough the chances of occurring are unlikely, Lyrica can also sometimes become addictive or habit forming. It is advisable not increase one’s dose without consultation of a doctor, or take it often than is absolutely necessary. Do not continue with the medication for a longer period than has been prescribed. The potential of pregabalin abuse is much less compared to the benzodiazepines.
Lyrica is usually free from grave side effects. However in a few patients there may be such signs as dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, concentration difficulty, fatigue, unsteadiness, weight gain, dry mouth, or nausea, and swelling in arms and legs. Certain rare side effects include tremor, vision changes, changes in quantity of urine, unusual tiredness, erectile dysfunction and changes in heartbeat pattern. Allergic reactions like itching, rash, breathing trouble are also unlikely. This preparation should be used with caution in case of patients with heart and kidney problems.
Lyrica can have dangerous interactions with some drugs as benzodiazepines, and barbiturates. It is also not recommended to be taken if a person is consuming alcohol or any drug which depresses the central nervous system. Lyrica is not to be used in children who are below 12 years or in adolescents on account of unavailability of sufficient data.
All said and done, the question of efficacy regarding the use of anticonvulsants like Lyrica and Neurontin in treating bipolar disorder is still steeped in controversy. It is best to follow your personal mental health expert’s opinion in this matter.