Gabapentin get you high
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Gabapentin Misuse and Its Potential to Get You High
Gabapentin Misuse and Abuse Potential
Gabapentin, originally approved for treating postherpetic neuralgia and epilepsy, has increasingly been misused for its psychoactive effects. Despite its therapeutic benefits, numerous reports indicate that gabapentin is being used recreationally to achieve a "high" . This misuse is particularly prevalent among individuals with a history of substance abuse, especially opioid users .
Reasons for Gabapentin Misuse
Several studies have identified the primary reasons for gabapentin misuse. These include achieving euphoria, enhancing the effects of opioids, alleviating opioid withdrawal symptoms, and substituting for other drugs . Users often combine gabapentin with other substances such as buprenorphine, opioids, cocaine, and caffeine to amplify its central nervous system effects, which include muscle relaxation, pain reduction, sleep induction, and feeling "high" .
Demographics and Patterns of Misuse
Research indicates that gabapentin misuse is common among individuals seeking treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD). In a study involving persons seeking inpatient opioid detoxification, a significant portion reported using gabapentin, often without a prescription. The misuse was more prevalent among males, who were more likely to use gabapentin to get high compared to females. Additionally, those with higher educational attainment, a history of overdose, and chronic pain were more likely to misuse gabapentin.
Risks and Side Effects
The misuse of gabapentin is associated with several risks and side effects. These include impaired driving, respiratory failure, and potential interactions with other drugs such as morphine and methadone, which can increase the risk of fatal overdose . Furthermore, gabapentin misuse has been linked to increased fatalities and higher doses of self-administration .
Clinical Implications and Monitoring
Given the rising misuse of gabapentin, some states have reclassified it as a Schedule V controlled substance and implemented prescription monitoring programs to track its use. Treatment providers have recognized the benefits of gabapentin for managing withdrawal symptoms and pain but also acknowledge its potential for misuse, which can be a marker of relapse in substance abuse treatment settings. There is a need for more research to understand how to use gabapentin effectively in treatment settings and to identify high-risk populations .
Conclusion
Gabapentin, while beneficial for certain medical conditions, has a significant potential for misuse, particularly among individuals with a history of substance abuse. Its ability to produce euphoric effects and enhance the high from opioids makes it a drug of concern. Increased awareness and monitoring are essential to mitigate the risks associated with gabapentin misuse.
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