Next Up: Melodic

Today, I decided that it was okay for me to announce to the doctor that I would never, ever again allow an anti-inflammatory near my abnormally normal self again.

We decided, together, that an MRI probably wouldn't tell us much.

Also, since the lumbar puncture ruled out pretty much everything on the planet that the blood tests haven't already managed to, then it is safe to assume that I am done with any sort of needle sticking, invasive errrr, STUFF for some time.

So, since my arms still hurt, where do we go from here, you ask? Or, whatever, don't ask, I'm telling you anyways.

Lyrica.

Which is new - so new apparantly that there are no cheap knock-offs - oh, sorry, generic brands, so it is quite pricey. The internet tells me that it was designed for MY PAIN! Of course, that is only if MY pain comes predominantly from shingles or diabetic nerve pain.

On the other hand - it is specifically a 'nerve pain modulator' and since that's the current direction of the thinking, (ie: damaged nerves in my arms) well, then, Lyrica it is.

I haven't picked up the prescription yet - it's for 2 weeks only - not because they think it'll work (apparantly it takes longer than that) but for them to check to see if any of the side effects kill me.

heh.

This is what the internet tells me about side effects..

difficulty speaking, loss of coordination, mental/mood changes, muscle pain/tenderness/weakness (especially if your are tired or have a fever), stomach/abdominal pain, uncontrolled movements (e.g., tremor, twitching), unusual tiredness, vision changes.

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: unusual bleeding/bruising, slow or irregular heartbeat.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

(If you happen to see me waddling and weaving down the street, twitching involuntarily, scratching my ass and looking a bit sunburned, could you stop and point it out to me? I'm a little distracted these days.)

Other interesting quotes from the Lyrica site (because Pfizer cares and is committed to helping me fight MY kind of pain)....

LYRICA works by reducing the number of “extra” electrical signals that are sent out from damaged nerves in your body. By calming the extra electrical signals in your nerves, LYRICA can help you become more comfortable.

Ahh, extra ones. Who knew? And excitable little buggers to boot.

I gotta say though, there is one bit that I find kind of scary...

Though it is very unlikely to occur, this medication can also result in abnormal drug-seeking behavior (addiction/habit-forming). Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently or use it for a longer period of time than prescribed. Properly stop the medication when so directed. This will lessen the chances of becoming addicted.

So when you pull over to tell me that I look like I'm having some side effects could you also scream....."TWICE A DAY, JEN, DON'T TAKE MORE THAN TWO PILLS A DAY! THAT'S EARTH DAYS! 24 HOURS! PUT THE BOTTLE ON THE GROUND IN FRONT OF YOU AND BACK SLOWLY AWAY!!! NOW, BITCH, BEFORE I RUN YOU OVER LIKE THE GARBAGE YOU ARE!!"

I know I can count on you guys.

Comments

[chris]

Good luck with the Lyrica. Its a form of Neurontin. Which didn't do crap for me except make me feel like I had Elmers Glue in my head. But then I always reacts to meds weirdly. I've had a lot of people do great on the Lyrica! Also on Cymbalta, which is an antidepressant but helps with pain as well, go figure. One odd thing I've noticed is that some people have gained weight with Lyrica. Don't know why. *shrug* Just thought I'd mention it. Loveya.

[Jen]

yeah, weight gain. goody.

Although, I never get the 'normal' side effects so I think I'll be good with that one.

At least that's the theory I'm going with.

[chris]

Good plan. *thumbs up*