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What Causes Diarrhea And Lower Abdominal Pain After Stopping Lyrica?
I am 10 weeks post surgery for a herniated disc at the L3-4 level. I developed blood clots a week after surgery. I took Lyrica for 2 months. I also am taking warfarin. Since I stopped the Lyrica I have experienced bowel issues where I have explosive diarrhea 2-3 times a week with cramping and lower abdominal pain. I take Imodium to relieve the symptoms but the relief only lasts a couple days. Could these symptoms be related to stopping the Lyrica and or taking the blood thinners? I have had IBS for many years but the severity of the diarrhea currently being experienced is is more severe than previous symptoms. Any thoughts? Thanks. Bill
Wed, 1 Feb 2023
Hello,
You are suffering from diarrhea and lower abdominal pain after stopping Lyrica. you are a 10 weeks post surgery patient for a herniated disc at L3-L4. Lyrica if stopped all of a sudden often presents with withdrawal symptoms. Lyrica withdrawal symptoms can cause complications like dehydration, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. It can result in anxiety and increased sweating thus leading to dehydration or electrolyte imbalance. Take adequate water and fluids to stay comfortable and hydrated.
Lyrica intake should always be done gradually under the observation of your local treating GP, recommended weaning period is usually more than week. The half-life of Lyrica is approximately 6 hours, and withdrawal symptoms may start within 24 hours after the last dose is taken. Immediate Lyrica withdrawal symptoms usually last for about 1-2 days, while residual symptoms can last for several weeks.
Do not panic, stay connected to your local treating doctor so that your withdrawal symptoms can be urgently managed. In case of severe discomfort you can visit ER for immediate medical support. Always consult your treating doctor before discontinuing any medicine. Don't do it by yourself.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician
You are suffering from diarrhea and lower abdominal pain after stopping Lyrica. you are a 10 weeks post surgery patient for a herniated disc at L3-L4. Lyrica if stopped all of a sudden often presents with withdrawal symptoms. Lyrica withdrawal symptoms can cause complications like dehydration, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. It can result in anxiety and increased sweating thus leading to dehydration or electrolyte imbalance. Take adequate water and fluids to stay comfortable and hydrated.
Lyrica intake should always be done gradually under the observation of your local treating GP, recommended weaning period is usually more than week. The half-life of Lyrica is approximately 6 hours, and withdrawal symptoms may start within 24 hours after the last dose is taken. Immediate Lyrica withdrawal symptoms usually last for about 1-2 days, while residual symptoms can last for several weeks.
Do not panic, stay connected to your local treating doctor so that your withdrawal symptoms can be urgently managed. In case of severe discomfort you can visit ER for immediate medical support. Always consult your treating doctor before discontinuing any medicine. Don't do it by yourself.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician
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