Gabapentin Addiction and Abuses

Overview:

Gabapentin, a prescription painkiller, is less addictive than opioids. Addiction and abuse can still happen, and it is possible to overdose.

Gabapentin: What is it?

Gabapentin, also known as Neurontin, a prescription painkiller, belongs to the Gabapentinoids drug class.

It is an anticonvulsant, which is why it is used most often to treat epilepsy and other conditions such as restless leg syndrome, hot flushes, and neuropathy.

Gabapentin addiction is still a problem for many people.

Gabapentin shares a chemical structure with Gamma-aminobutyric Acid (GABA), a brain chemical that affects the nervous system.

It can cause feelings of calm and relaxation, which can be helpful with nerve pain, anxiety, and poor sleep.

Gabapentin can be used to treat nerve pain, withdrawals from alcohol and cocaine, restless legs syndrome, diabetic neuropathy, and fibromyalgia.

Gabapentin works by changing calcium channels in the brain to ease nerve pain and reduce seizures. Neurontin, Gralise, and other brands of Gabapentin are some examples.

There are two street names for Gabapentin: “gabbies” and “johnnies”.

Gabapentin’s addictive nature can also lead to suicidal thoughts and mood swings. Gabapentin can cause high blood pressure, fever, and sleep problems.

It can also cause Chest pain.

Gabapentin abuse:

Gabapentin abuse is more common in those who are already addicted to opioids and other drugs. Gabapentin addiction can cause a feeling of calm, euphoria, and a similar high to marijuana.

In Kentucky, a 2013 study found that 15% of 503 participants reported illegal drug use.

They also used other drugs to get high during the past six months.

Another study that used a representative sample of the nation’s population found that almost 25% of patients who had co-prescriptions for opioids and Gabapentin were receiving more than their prescribed amounts to satisfy their addiction.

Many people are using the drug without a prescription. This is difficult to tackle from a policing perspective due to the drug’s legal status.

States, where Gabapentin Addiction has become more widespread, are now beginning to classify Gabapentin as a more tightly controlled drug.

Gabapentin is a prescription medication that can treat multiple conditions.

It has become a very popular drug in the U.S. GoodRx reported in May 2019 that Gabapentin was the fifth most prescribed drug in the country.

Despite its low abuse potential, it can be combined with other drugs to cause widespread harm and addiction.

Signs of Gabapentin Addiction:

Gabapentin overuse can have the following effects:

• Drowsiness
• Problems with coordination
• Tremors
• Dizziness
• Depression
• Suicidal thoughts/behaviors
• Modifications in mood
• Dizziness
• Poor coordination
• Forgetfulness
• Anxiety
• It is difficult to speak
• Inability to feel pleasure

These symptoms should be recognized and monitored for any other warning signs, such as excessive pill bottles.

These can have a negative impact on one’s safety, health, livelihood, or overall safety.

Gabapentin is often misused by early recovery Gabapentin addicts because they can experience a high (800mg) that may not be visible on drug screens.

Gabapentin users often abuse the drug along with opioids in order to achieve their desired high. This dangerous combination can prove fatal.

Gabapentin can be fatally taken alone or with other drugs. Gabapentin overdoses are not treated with the same antidote as opioid overdoses.

You should immediately seek medical attention if you notice signs such as sedation, muscle weakness, drowsiness, lethargy, droopy eyelids, diarrhea, and muscle weakness in a loved one.

Gabapentin Addiction Signs:

• Exaggerating or lying to doctors
• To get more doses, consult multiple doctors
• After the original doctor refuses, switching doctors
• Changes in social circles and/or habits
• Personal hygiene and grooming practices should be changed
• Persisting with drug use
• The thought of the drug not being available makes you feel uneasy
• Refusal of quitting despite the social, financial, or legal consequences
• Retirement attempts that failed

Gabapentin Addiction Treatment:

Gabapentin abuse can result in psychological and physical dependence.

When someone is so used to using a drug they can no longer function or feel normal, this is called dependence.

Gabapentin withdrawal symptoms can be severe and dangerous. These symptoms include anxiety, insomnia, and nausea.

The likelihood of having a seizure increases if one stops. This can cause injury to the person, or worsen life-threatening situations.

You should seek help from a professional or a rehabilitation facility to help you quit.

Takeaway:

There is help available if you suspect that you or someone you love is suffering from a substance abuse disorder. Talk to a specialist today about your treatment options.

Ask your friends and loved ones for support.

If you’re feeling anxious or depressed, consider joining a support group or seeking counseling. Believe in your ability to take control of the pain…

Hope you find this article helpful enough to give motivation. Kindly read our more articles and subscribe to us for staying updated on our all-new articles.

You can also read more health-related articles by subscribing and liking us on Facebook and Instagram. Feel Free to leave comments below for any suggestions or your views on it.

 

Thanks!!!

Leave a Reply

---

FAQs: