I tried Lyrica two or three years ago, but found it didn't help much either. It wasn't until the last year and a half or so, when I started having more RSD symptoms, that I decided to try it again. We started out with 3 75 mg capsules a day, and then upped it to four... I space them out throughout the day to decrease the side effects. I am diabetic, so I understand the concern about blood sugars, but for me to stave off the RSD was important enough to increase my insulin dosages. I recently switched to three 100 mg capsules per day, as I found the side effects had decreased enough that I was willing to try 100 mg at a time. I do have to take hydrochlorothiazide to deal with the fluid retention, but again, to keep the RSD away made it worth it. I'm considering asking about upping the dose, as the RSD seems to be a little less in control.

I believe the upper end dosage is 600 mg daily... I am at 300, so I'm halfway there. I just hope I don't have to max it out too soon. I know when I was down at 150 mg it did nothing for me.... other than make me dizzy. I do have some problems with blurred vision, but not enough to be concerning. Again, risk versus benefit...

I tried neurotin before lyrica, and didn't get much relief from it at all. All that did was make me feel "weird." Doc put me on Keppra 500mg 2x, 1000mg 1x - its another anti-convulsant i think. It works fairly well for me- the only downside is that it is not available as a generic, and it's hella expensive if insurance doesn't pick up the tab.

I've Tried Lyrica Too
 

I was given 50 mg of Lyrica 2X a day for the pain of PN caused from an injury. My experience with this med was not positive. I couldn't think clearly, would want to sleep all day, and would be awake with hot flashes all night. Interestingly enough, it did not seem to influence my appetite, but when I tired to stop this med it was horrible. After gradually trying to stop it, severe nausea and diarrhea would start, which lasted for 5 days. Fortunately, I was able to finally stop it on my second try. :eek: Too bad it didn't work for me and best of luck to all of you.

My doc tried to switch me to Lyrica but the insurance company refused. I haven't pushed the issue because neither the perceived benefits or the side effects seem much different than Neurontin, which I am still taking.

The Neurontin (600mg in the am, 1200mg at bedtime) definitely does help with the intermittent zingers (they go straight from my neck to my fingertips on the left side), but not with my overall burning pain. I have definitely gained weight, but was overweight anyhow so I avoid the scale ;). I also now have type 2 diabetes. The fog is constant for me. I used to be an SAT tutor, but now even my kids middle school math is tough for me, and my CEU credits, etc