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If you have been prescribed the anticonvulsant gabapentin, you might be alarmed at the number of gabapentin horror stories you encounter online.
This is understandable, and most people who claim that “gabapentin ruined my life” or “I took gabapentin for two weeks before becoming addicted” are referring to developing a substance use disorder (gabapentin addiction) after simply using this prescription medication.
While Gabapentin can lead to addiction, there is treatment available to help you get off the drug if needed. An addiction treatment center is typically covered by insurance, and can provide effective, evidence-based care for overcoming substance abuse.
Where You’d Be Staying
Read on to learn more about the following issues:
- Can you overdose on gabapentin?
- Are there any long term side effects from taking gabapentin?
- What are the long term side effects after stopping gabapentin?
- How can you connect with gabapentin addiction treatment in Southern California?
Our recovery program offers Gabapentin dependence treatment & mental health care on-site. Call today to learn more about our insurance-covered program.
What Is Gabapentin?
Gabapentin is an analog of the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) [1], a brain chemical which affects the CNS (central nervous system). Gabapentin is marketed under brand names like Neurontin, Gralise, and Horizant. It was originally developed as an anticonvulsant medication and also prescribed as an analgesic for neuropathic pain. It is a prescription drug used to control partial seizures, restless leg syndrome and indicated for nerve pain resulting from shingles.
It is also prescribed for multiple psychiatric conditions, such as generalized anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and is even prescribed, somewhat ironically, in addiction treatment to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
Its mechanism of action involves influencing chemical messengers (neurotransmitters) in the brain and nervous system.
It can produce feelings of relaxation and calmness, which can help with nerve pain, anxiety, and even poor sleep.
Different brands of gabapentin are distinct and not interchangeable. They have received Federal Drug Administration (FDA) approval for treating specific conditions. It is important to adhere to the brand and form prescribed by your doctor. The main types of gabapentin available in the United States include:
- Neurontin (gabapentin) is employed to alleviate pain associated with postherpetic nerve pain resulting from shingles [2]. Neurontin is also prescribed in conjunction with other seizure medications to control seizures in patients aged three years and older.
- Gralise, also containing gabapentin, is specifically designated for pain management following an episode of shingles-induced nerve pain [3]. It should not be employed for any other medical condition.
- Horizant, which contains gabapentin enacarbil [4], is an extended-release tablet aimed at addressing restless legs syndrome and to treat postherpetic neuralgia.
- Generic brands of gabapentin capsules serve to manage postherpetic nerve pain and act as supplementary therapy for partial onset seizures in patients aged three years and older.
Despite being a non-controlled substance in many regions, gabapentin carries a risk of physical dependence, especially with prolonged use or higher doses.
Although often recommended as less addictive than opioids, gabapentin addiction and abuse still occur in many patients.
In addition to its addictive potential, gabapentin can trigger suicidal ideation, mood swings, and sudden behavioral changes. It can also cause high blood pressure, sleep disturbances, fever, appetite changes, and chest pain.
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Struggling with addiction? We can help.
Side Effects of Gabapentin
Despite its therapeutic benefits, gabapentin can cause a range of side effects and withdrawal symptoms, which can vary from mild to severe.
Taking gabapentin may cause dizziness, drowsiness, weight gain, and difficulties with concentration or memory, potentially interfering with work, driving, and other daily responsibilities.
Misusing gabapentin in combination with other substances like benzodiazepines or opioids can lead to serious complications, including respiratory depression, suicidal thoughts, and death.
It’s important to tell your healthcare provider about all prescription and non-prescription medication that you are currently using.
Gabapentin Withdrawal Symptoms
Gabapentin withdrawal symptoms can vary in intensity and duration depending on the individual, the dosage they were taking, and how long they have been using the drug [5]. Abrupt discontinuation can be dangerous and cause severe discomfort, which may drive individuals toward gabapentin misuse to avoid withdrawal symptoms. This makes medical supervision essential when stopping the medication.
Gabapentin withdrawal can trigger various uncomfortable symptoms when you stop taking gabapentin. Common effects include heightened anxiety, irritability, insomnia, and headaches as the brain adjusts. Many experience gastrointestinal distress like nausea and vomiting, along with excessive sweating, particularly at night. Physical symptoms such as dizziness, tremors, and muscle spasms occur as the nervous system recalibrates. In rare, severe cases of gabapentin withdrawal, particularly after abrupt cessation, individuals may experience seizures, hallucinations, or severe confusion requiring immediate medical attention.
Get Treatment for Gabapentin Addiction at Gratitude Lodge
At Gratitude Lodge in Southern California, we offer specialized addiction treatment to combat addictions and address mental health conditions.
Our rehab centers, located in Newport Beach and Long Beach, CA, provide a holistic approach to recovery, emphasizing whole-body wellness and offering personalized treatment plans. We’re proud to be pet-friendly, ensuring that your journey to recovery is as comfortable as possible.
Our commitment to your well-being begins with our supervised medical detox program. This medical detox program provides a safe pathway to detoxification and ongoing recovery. When your system is cleansed of addictive substances, you can seamlessly transition into our 30-day inpatient program.
At Gratitude Lodge, we tailor our treatment programs to incorporate a range of evidence-based interventions to address addiction and promote ongoing recovery effectively. These interventions include:
- Medication assisted treatment
- Psychotherapy
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Individual counseling
- Group therapy
- Holistic therapies
- Family therapy
- Aftercare planning and support
Take the first step towards a healthier, addiction-free life by contacting our admissions team at 844-576-0144.
Sources
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK513311/
