LYRICA NEWSBRIEFS: Free Drugs, Canadian Availability, CHMP Rejection, Sleep Disturbance
FREE DRUGS: Pfizer Inc., makers of the fibromyalgia drug Lyrica (pregabalin), says it will give away free medications to people who have lost their jobs and health insurance. Pfizer's website has more information on the program and how to apply.
CANADIAN AVAILABILITY: Lyrica is now indicated in Canada as a fibromyalgia treatment. It's the first approved treatment there for the condition, just as it was the first to be approved in the U.S.
CHMP REJECTION: In Europe, the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) adopted a negative opinion of Lyrica for fibromyalgia. It recommends refusal of a requested marketing change to include fibromyalgia. Lyrica is currently approved there for neuropathic pain, epilepsy and generalized anxiety disorder.
SLEEP DISTURBANCE: A recent study shows that fibromyalgia-related sleep dysfunction may be improved by Lyrica. Researchers say participants experienced less pain both through better sleep and through the drug's analgesic activity.
MORE INFORMATION: Learn more about Lyrica, including its many side effects.
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I have been taking Lyrica since 2006. I am on Medicare, due to disability. However, I am currently in the donut hole and cannot afford my Lyrica. I have been trying to locate any type of assistance; even to subsidize at least part of my prescription. Every May I hit the donut hole and am unable to afford Lyrica until January when I am once again eligible for medications. Please let me know if you have any suggestions. Also, my Rheumotologist writes a script for 120 pills, but Medicare will only pay for 68. I have tried to obtain an “exception”, but get stuck in bureaucratic tape.
Michelle,
Have you looked into Pfizer programs for low income people? A lot of people are able to get medications for little or no money. Here’s a link for you:
Pfizer Patient Assistance Programs
Best of luck to you!