Lyrica, Topamax, Neurontin

[mmglobal]

In response to a question on another thread by dshobbies, I'd like to start a discussion about these meds for nerve pain.

I have personal experience with Neurontin and Topamax. I took Neurontin for more than 2 years. I hated the brain fog that came with it, so I resisted the push to megadoses... I spent most of the time on 900mg/day, occasionally going up to 1200. As much as I hated the loss of IQ, I am certain that it really helped. (Several times, I got fed up with taking it and still being in pain and stopped.... then I discovered that while I still hurt... it was helping a great deal.)

A change in pain docs put me on Topamax. I had a reaction that included tight throat and sores in my mouth, so I stopped the Topamax and went back to Neurontin.

It is my understanding that for about 25% of the patient population, Topamax is absolute magic in dealing with nerve pain. Clients of mine report good results with Lyrica.

I just spoke to a client of mine who is a pharmacist. She has agreed to come and chime in when she can be helpful.

So, let's discuss our experiences with these medications for nerve pain. I'll ask paindoc and Kay to come and add their 2 cents about the usage of these meds and specifically about dshobbie's question: What are average or equivalent dosages in transitioning from Neurontin to Lyrica.

Mark