Is Lyrica (pregabalin) better than gabapentin in the management of neuropathic pain?

Dear Ask The Doctor: I have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia. My question is this: Savella 100mg, tid is what I am taking and it's helping but I need something in addition for my pain. My doctor proposed Lyrica. Do you know if Lyrica would give the same benefits as Gabapentin?

Dear Carol: Lyrica (Pregabalin) has been shown in studies to provide equivalent efficacy to gabapentin, however, at much lower doses. Because lower dosages can be used to treat neuropathic pain, it is likely that pregabalin will be associated with fewer dose-related adverse events. Pregabalin has also shown greater potency than gabapentin in the management of pain symptoms.