Lyrica & Weight Gain for Fibro

I have tried all those meds to get bad side effects. So I finally was introduced to subutex. Its not for everyone, but works wonders for me. Many pain clinics are trying it on fibromites and getting great results. Doesn't take care of all the pain, but does most of it. I have been on it for 4 years. Sometimes it takes awhile to find what works for you. Try not to give up on meds to quickly, sometimes the side effects decrease or go away as you take them. I have heard many stories about the weight gain on lyrica. I am on a med that does the same thing. I hate to give it up, so I put up with the extra 50 pounds. So frustrating on what to do.

You may not be one of the people that gain the weight. The only way you are going to find out is to try it. You can always stop. I think it would be worth the risk to find out if you are interested in trying it.

I have gained weight on antidepressants and pain medications, but not enough to stop the medications. I would rather gain a little than to be depressed and in pain. The pain I can handle some, but not the depression.

I hope that you find what works for you. Keep trying and hang in there...

Hugs, Karen...

Thanks for all your responses, much appreciated. I am taking a small doze of lyrica but its not really helping me, I'm not going to continue it after hearing about the massive weight gain. I do tend to gain weight so I'm not going to even go there. If I gain even a little bit my depression becomes much worse. I'm also into fashion and modelling so mentally it's just not acceptable to me, I can't afford to keep changing my wardrobe because it's pricy. I cannot find any drug that doesn't interfere too much with my bipolar meds or has less severe side effects.

It might be too early but i'm wondering if someone has non-pharma regimen that works? I've already started taking supplements and am happy to take more and start physiotherapy + walking or light exercises at home?

Not sure if this will improve my condition enough to work full time...

I have gained a lot of weight on gabapentine. Been on it for like 20 years and now 1800mg daily. Trying to loose now. I think lyrica is about the same weight gain but not sure, I have not taken that yet because of the cost. Neurontin is much more affordable.

Thanks for the responses. Really appreciate it. Gabapentine is a no no for me then. I checked with my psychiatrist and she said continue taking Cymbalta for a month and if it's not working well for the pain switch to savella.

very helpful responses. Thank you.

I experienced moderate pain relief from Lyrica but the side-effects outweigh the positives. Weight gain, breathing problems, drowsiness, decreased libido.... etc. I am in the process of getting off of Lyrica and I can't wait until the side effects are gone.

Cymbalta provides just as much pain relief for me if not more, but personally speaking, it is HELL getting the drug in your system. Personally, I experience increased pain intensity in more and different locations for the first 3 weeks of Cymbalta, only to have the pain subside substantially the first week.