I have been taking Lyrica for over a year now.  I was overweight when i started taking it and my weight has not gone up.  It hasn't gone down much either, which is why I am seeking WLS.  I noticed effects the very next day after starting to use it.  And I REALLY notice how helpful it is if I forget to refill and run out.  It does a good job on the pain I have from osteoaerthritis, degenerative disc disease with entrapped nerves causing what's termed radiculopathy or "sciatica", neuropathic pain.  I have no drowsiness on it, bit some folks do.  It's not for everyone.  I titrated up slowly on it, and now take 75 3 x daily.  I can get away with 2x day so that is what I do now.  I accidentally took it twice last night and ended up having to stay home today feeling all loopy, so be careful.  That's why i have to use my pill organizer to keep track.  The side effects listed include increased appetite, but that does not happen in all cases.  If anything, for me I ate less because I stopped trying to distract myself from the pain with eating something soothing.  I have had a good experience with Lyrica.  I hope it helps.

Has anyone experienced elevated uric acid (gout) and elevated potassium levels post WLS and what was the outcome? My kidney function is slightly decrease. I have only one kidney. I am 3 months from having lap band surgery and have been working with a dietitian for 4 months to help me prepare for my new life style. My PCP and dietitian think that it is possible the increased  protein intake is causing the problem. My protein intake is well within (60 to 80 grams) but it is more than I have had in the past. Most of that protein is coming from Any-Whey and chicken.

Had my right knee scoped over 10 yrs ago. 11 months ago I had a total knee replacement. Hardest surgery I have ever had done. I can say I can walk better and the pain is not the same type pain. It still gets very hot to the touch and swells as well as I have no feeling about 5 inches down the incision and 4 inches to the side of it on both sides. The pain is dull and not constant as before but when I walk for long time or stand it does hurt quite a bit. Pain meds help take edge off though. I was told it would take over a year to get back to almost normal and it has been a struggle at times. I have rheumaotoid arthritis and since wls I have flare ups more often than before wls. By the time I am done with one area another area starts to act up. Frustrating but I have learned to deal with it quite well after 30 yrs diagnosed. My mobility is very good compared to almost none before surgery. Running or joggin I have never tried but walkimng is definately better for me. My left knee is rubbing bone on bone now and have to look forward to having it done this year also. Irish aka Ms Pisces

Am waiting to have this done on my knees  Will this help the pain? I have loose bodies and also torn meniscus as well  Been told I have no cartlige either and now bone on bone ,is the pain very bad after knee replacements? Can you flex the knees as before ?as mine have very good flexion  Am very confused, hate the pain and lack of mobility,but at the same time I am very flexible and dont want to lose that  I would really love to be able to maybe jog, or go to the gym ,would this be possible after knee replacement?

I have had no success at all and I am gettign a second opiniion because I have also been diagnosed with Lupus and and it seems there is no help for the pain.  Just curious though have you found over the past few years that treatment is more available?