Is Gabapentin Addictive? Uses, Effects, Gabapentin Addiction, & Gabapentin Abuse.

Is Gabapentin Addictive?

Gabapentin has attracted interest for possible applications apart from its original use in treating epilepsy. However, concerns about Gabapentin’s potential for abuse and addiction have been raised. Uses, side effects, and the potential for abuse of Gabapentin are all discussed in this article.

What Is Gabapentin?

Anticonvulsants like gabapentin, sold under the brand name Neurontin, treat epileptic seizures and neuropathic pain. It’s in a class of drugs called Gabapentinoids, and it’s used to treat a wide variety of conditions, including epilepsy, RLS, hot flashes, and nerve pain. Despite being a safer alternative to opioids, gabapentin abuse remains a problem.

It has a structure similar to GABA and helps with sleep, anxiety, and nerve pain. Altering calcium channels, it is prescribed for pain associated with neuropathy, fibromyalgia, alcohol withdrawal, restless leg syndrome, and seizures. Some common brand names for these narcotics include Neurontin and Gralise, while their street names include “Gabbies” and “Johnnies.”

Gabapentin causes mood swings, suicidal ideas, and behavioral changes, in addition to its addictive potential. It causes hypertension, fever, disturbed sleep, altered appetite, and chest pain. Do your research and talk to your doctor regularly.

Gabapentin Abuse

Gabapentin abuse typically develops in people struggling with opioid or other substance dependencies. Misusing Gabapentin produces an altered state of consciousness similar to that produced by marijuana use, alongside feelings of extreme calm and euphoria.

The results of this study lend credence to these worries. Fifteen percent of study participants who reported using illicit drugs also reported using Gabapentin in combination with other substances within the previous six months. Another large-scale study intended to be representative of the general population found that nearly a quarter of patients prescribed opioids alongside Gabapentin were taking more than three times the recommended dosage, significantly exacerbating their addiction.

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Learn More:

• Gabapentin Detox
• Prescription Drug Addiction
• Mixing Prescription Drugs with Alcohol
• Prescription Pill Detox
• What Does Withdrawal Mean?

The abuse of Gabapentin without a valid prescription is a growing problem in many parts of the world. The drug’s ambiguous legal status complicates law enforcement’s efforts to address the problem. Some states are taking action to reclassify Gabapentin as a more strictly controlled substance in an effort to combat the growing problem of the drug’s abuse.

While its effectiveness in treating a wide range of medical issues has made gabapentin one of the most commonly prescribed drugs in the United States, its high abuse potential is cause for serious concern. The widespread harm and addiction caused by its use in combination with other substances makes it all the more important to raise public awareness and implement targeted intervention strategies.

Gabapentin Abuse Statistics

Prevalence of gabapentin misuse in the general population was reported to be 1%, 40– 65% among individuals with prescriptions, and between 15–22% within populations of people who abuse opioids. An array of subjective experiences reminiscent of opioids, benzodiazepines, and psychedelics were reported over various doses, including those within clinical recommendations. Gabapentin was primarily misused for recreational purposes, self-medication, or intentional self-harm and was misused alone or in combination with other substances, especially opioids, benzodiazepines, and/or alcohol. Individuals with histories of drug abuse were most often involved in its misuse.

Signs Of A Gabapentin Addiction

It is important to know the signs of Gabapentin addiction so that help and intervention can be given as soon as possible. Some signs of Gabapentin abuse and dependence are as follows:

• Increased Use: Taking Gabapentin in higher doses or more often than prescribed.
• Cravings is when you have a strong need or desire to take Gabapentin even when you are not in pain.
• Loss of Control: It’s hard to stop or cut back on Gabapentin use, even though it has bad effects.
• Isolation: Staying away from people or activities in order to use Gabapentin alone.
• Responsibilities: Ignoring personal, work, or family obligations because of Gabapentin use.

• Preoccupation: Spending a lot of time thinking about getting Gabapentin, using it, or getting better from its effects.
• Health Problems: Using Gabapentin and having physical or mental health problems because of it.
• Doctor Shopping: Visiting multiple doctors to obtain additional Gabapentin prescriptions.
• Combining Drugs: Using Gabapentin with other drugs to make its effects stronger.
• Withdrawal symptoms: Having uncomfortable or upsetting symptoms when trying to cut back on or stop taking Gabapentin

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Why do People Abuse Gabapentin?

People may abuse Gabapentin for various reasons, often seeking to experience its euphoric or relaxing effects. Some of the motivations behind Gabapentin abuse include:

• Euphoria: Gabapentin can induce feelings of euphoria, calmness, and relaxation, which some individuals find pleasurable and desirable.
• Enhancement of Other Substances: Some people use Gabapentin to enhance the effects of other substances, such as opioids or benzodiazepines, leading to a more intense high.
• Self-Medication: Individuals may misuse Gabapentin as a form of self-medication to alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, or pain, even without a valid prescription.
• Opioid Withdrawal: Gabapentin has been used to manage opioid withdrawal symptoms, as it can alleviate discomfort and help individuals cope during detoxification.
• Combating Insomnia: Some people abuse Gabapentin to improve sleep or manage insomnia, as it can induce sedation and drowsiness.
• Experimentation: Curiosity or experimentation can drive individuals to misuse Gabapentin to understand its effects and how it interacts with other substances.
• Availability: Gabapentin may be readily available and easy to obtain, leading to misuse by those seeking a readily accessible high.
• Lack of Awareness: Some individuals may be unaware of the potential risks of Gabapentin misuse and may inadvertently develop a habit.

Gabapentin Detox and Addiction Treatment

Suddenly discontinuing Gabapentin can boost the probability of seizures, so it’s vital to seek assistance when looking to quit. Suppose you are getting treatment for a gabapentin addiction problem. In that case, you will likely begin with a medically-assisted Gabapentin detox to slowly eradicate the drug from your body in a controlled way. After completing the Gabapentin detox, you need medical clearance before transitioning into an inpatient treatment program. There are several gabapentin addiction treatment options available, including:

Medically-assisted Gabapentin Detox

After heavy or extended use of this drug, your system becomes dependent on Gabapentin and needs it to function and avoid a possible dangerous withdrawal symptom. Getting medically-assisted Gabapentin detox helps you slowly wean off gabapentin while under medical care.

Inpatient Treatment

If your gabapentin addiction is severe or you have co-occurring mental health or medical issues, an inpatient program can provide intensive care. Inpatient treatment demands that you live at the facility for the entire duration of your treatment. These programs provide a safe environment and a high level of structure that minimizes triggers to use the drug. Before starting treatment, medical professionals will assess your situation and your addiction to create a tailored treatment plan. This may include group and individual therapy, family therapy, relapse prevention lessons, support groups, and aftercare planning.

Support Groups

Before, during, or after treatment, you may attend 12-step meetings like AA/NA or other support groups. When you go to a support group, you will be welcomed by individuals who know what you’ve been through because they’ve gone through it too. Feeling accepted can make a massive difference in your healing because you will create a new support network of sober people and learn from individuals who have been abstinent from drugs for longer.

Aftercare Addiction Treatment Program

While in rehab, you will get ready for your transition out of treatment by developing an aftercare plan. This will look different for every person and may include the following:

• Transitioning into a sober living facility.
• Locating a counselor or therapist outside of treatment.
• Regularly attending 12-step meetings or other support groups.

After you leave treatment, you must stay involved with aftercare recovery treatment to prevent relapse.

Find the Right Treatment Plan at We Level Up NJ

The inpatient treatment approach works best to change the person’s behaviors. Also, it will help clients establish social support systems and better coping methods. However, a person will likely experience many different side effects from the abuse and misuse of Gabapentin. These side effects may be physical, emotional, or mental. For instance, someone in withdrawal will likely experience many uncomfortable feelings and negative thoughts about life during detox. Unfortunately for those with dependency, medically assisted Gabapentin detox is an unavoidable first step towards recovery. 

Please, do not try to detox on your own. The detox process can be painful and difficult without medical assistance. However, getting through the detox process is crucial for continued treatment. We Level Up NJ provide proper care with round-the-clock medical staff to assist your recovery. So, reclaim your life; call us to speak with one of our treatment specialists. Our counselors know what you are going through and will answer any of your questions. 

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Voluntarily testimonials from the We Level Up Treatment Center network vary. Not intended as a guaranteed treatment or outcome as each person's journey is unique.

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Powerful Video Overcoming Prescription Drugs Abuse & Gabapentin Addiction

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