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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Does Lyrica For Shingles Cause Depression In An Elderly Person?

good morning, my father is 87 and has been prescribed Lyrica to treat Shingles. This seems to me to be an extremely strong med to ease his pain and discomfort. He has been given 25mg capsules and may be on them for some time. He isn t allowed to drive while taking them, and I am alarmed at the chance of him feeling more depressed than he already does? My name is Judy
Wed, 30 Sep 2015
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Neurologist,  's  Response
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern.

As a drug which acts on the central nervous system Lyrica can cause some side effects like somnolence which is why he was recommended not to drive. Depression is not a common side effect though, it shouldn't be your main concern.
You should understand that among drugs given for post herpetic (shingles) pain it is perhaps the one with fewer side effects, so if the pain is too intense to bear I do think Lyrica is the best initial choice. His dosage also seems to be a low one, so it seems to me his doctor is being cautious and you should trust him.

I hope things work out for the best.
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Does Lyrica For Shingles Cause Depression In An Elderly Person?

I read your question carefully and I understand your concern. As a drug which acts on the central nervous system Lyrica can cause some side effects like somnolence which is why he was recommended not to drive. Depression is not a common side effect though, it shouldn t be your main concern. You should understand that among drugs given for post herpetic (shingles) pain it is perhaps the one with fewer side effects, so if the pain is too intense to bear I do think Lyrica is the best initial choice. His dosage also seems to be a low one, so it seems to me his doctor is being cautious and you should trust him. I hope things work out for the best.