Is Gabapentin Addictive? Signs, Overdose, Withdrawal & Treatment. How Addictive is Gabapentin? Is Gabapentin an Addictive Drug?

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Featured We Level Up Treatment Centers: Gabapentin Detox & Rehab Program

Overcoming gabapentin withdrawal can be a daunting journey. Many individuals battle to quit alone and often relapse due to symptoms and cravings. With We Level Up’s comprehensive therapy and effective treatment plans, you can find support for a smoother withdrawal and successful recovery.

If you need rehab guidance, our treatment advocates are available 24/7. Your call is confidential and free.

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 alcohol. Individuals with histories of drug abuse were most often involved in its misuse.

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• 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

Is Gabapentin Addictive for Anxiety?

The potential for addiction to gabapentin is limited, despite its widespread usage in treating epilepsy and nerve pain. The DEA has not designated it as a Schedule I or II drug. Though it has been used “off-label” to treat anxiety, it has varying degrees of success depending on the person taking it.

Although gabapentin has been shown to help some people with anxiety, it may not be appropriate for everyone. Abruptly discontinuing the medicine use after long-term use may cause dependence or withdrawal symptoms.

Conquering Gabapentin Withdrawal: Discover the Support You Seek

Withdrawing from gabapentin can be an arduous journey to navigate alone. Numerous individuals face relapses during withdrawal as they try to ease symptoms and cravings. Yet, you can effectively manage withdrawal symptoms and achieve recovery through detox, rehab therapy, and a strong support network at We Level Up treatment centers. Contact a We Level Up treatment expert today if you need help on your rehab path. Your call is both free and confidential.

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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 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.

Why is Gabapentin Addictive?

Unlike opioids and stimulants, gabapentin is not widely regarded as highly addictive. However, there have been reports of people becoming dependent on gabapentin, particularly in abuse or excessive dosing cases.

Gabapentin can be sedating because it affects the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitter. As a result, it is employed in treating epilepsy and neuropathic pain. Some people may abuse gabapentin because they seek its sedative and anxiolytic effects, which they may see as beneficial.

Abruptly discontinuing gabapentin use after long-term use might lead to dependence because the body will have adjusted to the drug’s presence. This can bring on withdrawal symptoms like agitation, sleeplessness, and anxiety.
The potential for addiction to gabapentin is limited, despite its widespread usage in treating epilepsy and nerve pain. The DEA has not designated it as a Schedule I or II drug. Though it has been used “off-label” to treat anxiety, it has varying degrees of success depending on the person taking it.

Although gabapentin has been shown to help some people with anxiety, it may not be appropriate for everyone. Abruptly discontinuing the medicine use after long-term use may cause dependence or withdrawal symptoms.

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.

At We Level Up Treatment Center, we are committed to guiding you toward lasting recovery from Gabapentin withdrawal and co-occurring conditions. Our multidisciplinary team is here to provide unwavering support, guidance, and personalized care every step of the way. Let’s embark on this transformative journey together.

Most Popular Is Gabapentin Addictive FAQs

Powerful Video Overcoming Prescription Drugs Abuse & Gabapentin Addiction

“I wanted my life back. I was a shell of a person. I wanted to be trusted, I wanted relationships back that I lost, mainly my children and family. It started innocent enough, I got into a car accident, and then I got sucked into the whole, you know, medication issue with the pills. Before I knew it, I was in a cloud. I was sucked in by addiction, and with my mind, I kept thinking it was OK because a doctor was prescribing this for me, a doctor was giving me this, a doctor was giving me that.

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Jen’s Addiction Recovery Testimonial