Gabapentin is a drug that can be used to treat a variety of psychiatric disorders. It works by reducing the activity of neurotransmitters that cause agitation, anxiety, and pain.
Abusing gabapentin can lead to physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms. Getting professional help can help you or a loved one stop using this medication and live a healthier life.
Side Effects
Gabapentin is a popular drug for treating nerve pain, and it is often used in conjunction with other medications for a wide variety of conditions. Many people believe that it has fewer side effects than prescription opioids and is safe for long-term use.
However, regular use of gabapentin can lead to addiction and dependence. It is important to talk with your doctor about your use of gabapentin and any other drugs or alcohol you may be using.
Abuse of gabapentin can lead to serious, sometimes fatal, side effects. These include respiratory problems, including trouble breathing (such as blue lips or skin, shallow breathing, or difficulty breathing), and seizures.
If you experience severe or life-threatening respiratory or cardiovascular problems while taking this medication, call your doctor right away. You should also seek medical attention if you have any symptoms of an allergic reaction to gabapentin, such as hives or rash.
Symptoms of Withdrawal
Gabapentin is a medication that acts on the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which helps control seizures. If you stop taking it, your body will go through withdrawal symptoms.
The most effective way to avoid withdrawal symptoms is by tapering off the medication as part of a medical detox program. This will minimize the risk of dangerous complications like seizures.
Other common withdrawal symptoms include agitation, disorientation, and confusion. These symptoms can make it difficult to function and lead to a poor quality of life.
Symptoms of withdrawal can last from 12 hours to 7 days after the person stops taking gabapentin. Often, these withdrawal symptoms will clear up over time.
Treatment Options
Gabapentin is a drug that can help with sleep problems, anxiety, and even headaches. However, it can also lead to addiction if taken in large doses or abused in conjunction with other drugs.
If you or a loved one is struggling with Gabapentin use disorder, treatment is available. Our team of addiction specialists can assess you or your loved one to determine which treatment options will be most beneficial to you.
Medical detox is a great way to stop using Gabapentin without experiencing the withdrawal symptoms that can occur when you try to quit on your own. Withdrawal symptoms can range from anxiety to insomnia, pain, nausea, and sweating.
Aside from medical detox, you or your loved one may need to taper off Gabapentin slowly and under the supervision of a medical professional. This will allow the body to adjust to a smaller amount of Gabapentin and help reduce the risk of overdose.
Prevention
While gabapentin can be a safe and effective drug for treating certain medical conditions, it can also become addictive. This can lead to the development of Gabapentin Use Disorder if regular use is not supervised by a healthcare provider.
The drug is used to treat certain health problems, including seizures and restless leg syndrome (RLS). It’s also a common medication used in alcohol withdrawal treatment.
If you or someone you know has been using Gabapentin and is showing signs of addiction, get help now. You can do this by contacting a detox center.
Gabapentin abuse occurs more often in people who have a history of substance misuse or are combining it with other substances. These individuals often use it in combination with opioids to increase their euphoric effects.