Does Lexapro Help Lyrica? (9 Precautions)

By Ivan Kahwa

Page last updated: 06/02/2024 | Next review date: 06/02/2026

Author bio

Mr Ivan Kahwa is a chemist and phytopharmaceutical scientist with expertise in chemistry, pharmacology, phytochemistry, and Nanobiotechnology. He writes and reviews content on these topics.

Mr Ivan Kahwa’s Highlights:

Guest Researcher at the University of Leipzig, Senior Research Fellow/Scientist, and Lecturer at the Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

Professional Experience:

Mr Ivan joined PHARMBIOTRAC as a research fellow/scientist during his master of science tenure. He contributed to the development of most of the phytopharmaceutical products in the project. Furthermore, he participated in carrying out the pharmacological activities of the developed products in laboratory animals such as mice and rats in order to develop proper doses hence leading to pre-clinical studies.

With the above relevant research experience, Ivan started to work with the University of Leipzig on collaborative projects with Mbarara University to develop the chemistry of Ugandan Medicinal plants and their pharmacological activities. This was coupled with several consultative positions by different German NGOs. Mr. Kahwa is also a supporting in the teaching and learning at the Departments of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

With the increase in antimicrobial resistance globally, Ivan retooled his thinking towards developing new naturally derived antibiotic regimens from Ugandan propolis with the assistance of nanotechnology to improve their delivery to microbial cells. Kahwa has also published over 28 articles in peer-reviewed journals and he is currently reviewing for many journals.

Education:

2023-2027: PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (ongoing) with a focus on Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Nanobiology at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

2022: 2Msc. in Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine Science at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

2018: Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

Publications:

▪ Iqbal, S., Jabeen, F., Kahwa, I., & Omara, T. 2023. Suberosin Alleviates Thiazolidinedione-Induced Cardiomyopathy in Diabetic Rats by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via Modulation of ACSL4-LPCAT3 and PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathways. Cardiovascular Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12012-023-09804-7

▪ Gupta, A. K., Yadav, R., Sharma, S., Sawale, J., & Kahwa, I. 2023. Anti-ageing Activity and Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Extracts of Leaves and Flowers of Salvia officinalis and Rosmarinus officinalis. Journal of Young Pharmacists, 15(3), 448–455. https://doi.org/10.5530/jyp.2023.15.60

▪ Tolo, C.U., Kahwa, I., Nuwagira, U., Weisheit, A. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Medicinal plants used in treatment of various diseases in the Rwenzori Region, Western Uganda. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 25, pp.1-16.

https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/4683

▪ Kahwa, I., Ajayi, C.O., Yadav, R., Chauhan, N.S., Shah, K., Abdelgadir, A.A., Shegena, E.A., Daniel, S., Omara, T., Asiimwe, J.B. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies as an invaluable approach for correct identification of medicinal plants: The case of Artemisia vulgaris L. substituted for Artemisia annua L. in Western Uganda. TMR Integr Med, 7, p.e23004.

https://doi.org/10.53388/TMRIM202307004

▪ Nalimu, F., Oloro, J., Kahwa, I. and Ogwang, P.E., 2021. Review on the phytochemistry and toxicological profiles of Aloe vera and Aloe ferox. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7, pp.1-21.

https://doi.org/10.1186/s43094-021-00296-2

▪ Elamin, O.H.S., Ali, M.A., Elgezuli, I.A.A., Bashir, M.A. and Kahwa, I., 2021. Diagnosis of pre-and post-treatment of echinococcus granulosus with counter current immune electrophoresis and bacterial co-agglutination. Journal of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 11(02), pp.88-94.

https://doi.org/10.5799/jmid.951600

Published book Chapter

▪ Kahwa, I., Ayesiga, I., Nakalema, S., Alinaiswe, R., Mbabazi, R. and Iqbal, S., 2023. Natural products in the management of onchocerciasis. In Natural Products in Vector-Borne Disease Management (pp. 63-80). Academic Press. Book Chapter.

https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91942-5.00012-4

Submitted manuscripts Under Review:

▪ Comparison of the Wound Healing Activity of the Leaf and Leaf Ash Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina in Rats. Journal name: Clinical Phytoscience

▪ Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal plants used in the management of cancer in Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Herbal Medicine

▪ Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemical screening of medicinal plants used in treatment of epilepsy by PROMETRA-Uganda Traditional Health Practitioners in Mpigi District, Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Ethnopharmacology

Submitted book chapters under review

1.Book title: Algae as a Natural Solution for Water-Food-Energy Nexus, Section 4: Microalgae and cyanobacteria for food applications, Chapter 4.6: Safety, toxicological and allergenic aspects of using algae for food. Authors: Christine Kyarimpa, Tom Omute, Caroline K. Nakiguli, Alice V. Khanakwa4, Christopher Angiro, Ivan Kahwa, Fortunate Ahumuza, Timothy Omara*. Publisher: Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 152 Beach Road, #21-01/04 Gateway East, Singapore 189721, Singapore.

2.Book title: Nutraceuticals Inspiring the Contemporary Therapy for Lifestyle Diseases. Chapter: Nutraceutical applications of Seaweeds and their Phytocompounds in Nutrition and Treatment of Diseases. Authors: Ivan Kahwa, Timothy Omara , Innocent Ayesiga , Gael Noel Neh Neba Ambe , Zehbanaz Javidbhai Panwala , Rachel Mbabazi , Shabnoor Iqbal , Christine Kyarimpa , Christine Betty Nagawa , Kamal Shah ,Nagendra Singh Chauhan* Publisher: CRC Press

You can view my works on the following professional sites:

Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ivan-Kahwa

Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=tOwrvqoAAAAJ&hl=en

ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6440-3437

Linkedin: https://de.linkedin.com/in/ivan-kahwa-865450159

Ivan Kahwa

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In this article, we will explore whether Lexapro helps Lyrica. We will also discuss the related research findings, benefits, side effects, and precautions to be taken when using a combination of Lexapro and Lyrica.

Does Lexapro help Lyrica?

Lexapro may help Lyrica when prescribed for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Both of these medications are effective in treating GAD. Your doctor may prescribe Lyrica if you are not responding well to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as Lexapro in treating GAD.

However, in some cases, Lexapro may reduce the effectiveness of medications used to control seizures, such as Lyrica. Additionally, there may be an increased risk of hyponatremia if Lexapro (an antidepressant) is taken concomitantly with Lyrica (anticonvulsant).

What are the mechanisms and indications of Lexapro and Lyrica?

Lyrica is approved by the FDA for treating certain types of pain, fibromyalgia, and epilepsy. It may also be used for conditions like anxiety, bipolar disorder, insomnia, and other types of pain.

The mechanism of action of Lyrica is similar to that of a natural brain chemical called GABA, which reduces the activity of nerve cells and makes them release fewer stimulating chemicals. Due to this mechanism, Lyrica can help prevent seizures and reduce pain (1).

Lexapro is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant that increases serotonin levels by blocking its reuptake in brain cells and serotonin regulates sleep, anxiety, appetite, and stress response. Lexapro is used to treat and manage major depressive and generalized anxiety disorders (2).

What does research suggest?

There is limited research data related to the concurrent use of Lexapro and Lyrica. However, a research study explored the effects of Lyrica in patients who are unresponsive to Lexapro. This study suggested that Lyrica didn’t make a significant difference in helping patients with anxiety and depression (3).

In another clinical study, it was found that when Lexapro is used for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), anxiety was reduced with a low incidence of side effects, and physical well-being was also improved.

Therefore, Lyrica can help some patients with GAD who do not respond well to other treatments (4). Another study was conducted to examine the effects of Lyrica in patients with depression who are already taking antidepressants.

Researchers examined 197 patients; some received Lyrica, and others received a placebo (a fake pill) for 6 weeks. It was found that patients who took Lyrica had less pain and felt better in terms of anxiety, depression, and sleep.

So, this study suggested that Lyrica can be helpful for people with depression who are already on antidepressants (5). Lyrica is known to help with anxiety disorders, and it might be a useful addition to other depression medications like SSRIs and SNRIs. This is because Lyrica works through a mechanism related to GABA, which can be effective in treating chronic depression (6).

What are the benefits of using Lexapro and Lyrica together?

When used in combination, Lexapro and Lyrica may be effective for some patients of GAD, who do not respond to the SSRI therapy alone. Lexapro, an antidepressant and Lyrica, an anticonvulsant, when used together, may complement each other in treating anxiety and depression in some patients.

Lyrica is used to treat nerve pain, and if someone with anxiety or depression also has pain-related conditions, using a combination of Lyrica and Lexapro may show significant improvement.

What are the side effects of using Lexapro and Lyrica together?

When Lexapro and Lyrica are used in combination, they may cause some side effects. If you experience any of the below-mentioned side effects, and they persist or worsen, immediately report it to your healthcare provider.

Nausea
Dizziness
Excessive tiredness
Headaches
Dry mouth
Changes in appetite
Lack of concentration
Memory problems
Muscle or joint pain
Hives or blisters
Seizures (7,8)

What are the precautions while using Lexapro and Lyrica together?

Precautions to be taken when using Lexapro and Lyrica together include:

Tell your doctor if you are allergic to either Lexapro or Lyrica.
Inform your doctor if you are taking any other medicines or supplements.
Your doctor must be aware of your family or medical history before prescribing you the combination of Lexapro and Lyrica.
Do not consume alcohol, as it can add to the drowsiness caused by these medications.
Avoid driving while taking Lexapro and Lyrica together.
Lexapro (Escitalopram) and Celexa (Citalopram) are two different SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors); do not confuse these two as they have almost similar generic names.
Electrolyte levels should be monitored while taking Lexapro and Lyrica together.
If you are having surgery, inform your doctor that you are taking a combination of Lexapro and Lyrica.
If you are planning to become pregnant, inform your doctor as these medications have sexual side effects (7,8).

Conclusion

Based on my research analysis, the combination of Lexapro and Lyrica may be effective for patients with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and depression. Your doctor may prescribe you a combination of Lexapro and Lyrica if you do not respond well to Lexapro alone.

However, if you experience any side effects when using this combination of Lexapro and Lyrica, do not stop taking these medications on your own. Always consult your doctor if you notice any bothersome side effects.

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References

1.-

Cross AL, Viswanath O, Sherman AL. Pregabalin. 2022 Nov 14. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 29261857. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29261857/

2.-

Landy K, Rosani A, Estevez R. Escitalopram. 2023 Jan 28. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 32491666. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32491666/

3.-

Fountoulakis KN, Karavelas V, Moysidou S, Mavridis D, Pastiadis K, Petalidou N, Nimatoudis I, Kasper S. Efficacy of Add-on Pregabalin in the Treatment of Patients with Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Unipolar Major Depression With an Early Nonresponse to Escitalopram: A Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Study. Pharmacopsychiatry. 2019 Jul;52(4):193-202. doi: 10.1055/a-0695-9223. Epub 2018 Aug 31. PMID: 30170329. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30170329/

4.-

Rickels K, Shiovitz TM, Ramey TS, Weaver JJ, Knapp LE, Miceli JJ. Adjunctive therapy with pregabalin in generalized anxiety disorder patients with partial response to SSRI or SNRI treatment. Int Clin Psychopharmacol. 2012 May;27(3):142-50. doi: 10.1097/YIC.0b013e328350b133. PMID: 22302014. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22302014/

5.-

Arnold LM, Sarzi-Puttini P, Arsenault P, Khan T, Bhadra Brown P, Clair A, Scavone JM, Driscoll J, Landen J, Pauer L. Efficacy and Safety of Pregabalin in Patients with Fibromyalgia and Comorbid Depression Taking Concurrent Antidepressant Medication: A Randomized, Placebo-controlled Study. J Rheumatol. 2015 Jul;42(7):1237-44. doi: 10.3899/jrheum.141196. Epub 2015 Jun 1. PMID: 26034150. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26034150/

6.-

Showraki M. Pregabalin in the treatment of depression. J Psychopharmacol. 2007 Nov;21(8):883-4. doi: 10.1177/0269881107078496. PMID: 17984164. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17984164/

7.-

Pregabalin-MedlinePlus [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); [Last Revised – 05/15/2020]. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a605045.html

8.-

Escitalopram-MedlinePlus [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); [Last Revised – 07/15/2023]. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a603005.html

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Does Lexapro help Lyrica? (9 precautions)