Questioning Lyrica for neck/shoulder pain

Questioning Lyrica for neck/shoulder pain

Q:

Age: 61 Sex: F Concern: herniated cervical disc C4/C5

I had a series of epideral blocks in the C4/C5 portion of my neck, for pain stemming from a herniated disc in that area. When the blocks did not completely get rid of the pain, the doctor gave me a prescription for Lyrica. He claims that Lyrica has been shown to be helpful, with this type of situation. I know it is used for fibromyalgia, but does it help with disc pain? So far I don't have the prescription filled, because it needs to be pre-authorized by the doctor's office. I would like a second opinion on this drug, for pain from herniated disc. Many Thanks.

-- myra

A:

Yes it is likely to help with neuropathic pain as well. It is widely used for disc pain and referred pain from a disc problem. If Lyrica is too expensive, you can use Neurontin.

-- Sherman Nam Tran, M. D.

to ask Dr. Tran.