Gabapentin Ruined My Life.

[nelson]

Gabapentin Ruined My Life.

Gabapentin has emerged to be one of the most in-demand treatments available for neuropathic pain, seizure disorders, and even certain types of chronic pain. This is a very broadly prescribed drug for everything from epilepsy to postherpetic neuralgia-the pain that persists after shingles-and sometimes even restless legs syndrome. Mechanism of action: Gabapentin works by affecting how nerves send messages to your brain; it mellows out overactive nerve signals.

It is also noted that gabapentin treats conditions aside from nerve pain and seizures, such as anxiety, migraines, or sleeping disorders, though this is considered off-label and should strictly be according to a healthcare professional, as dosage differs with the condition being treated.

Gabapentin is available in many forms: capsules, tablets, and oral solutions. It is generally administered two to three times a day and can be taken with or without food. Individuals receiving the medication on a regular basis should not suddenly stop taking gabapentin. Abruptly stopping gabapentin may lead to withdrawal symptoms or increased seizures.

Gabapentin Addiction and Abuse

Gabapentin is a medication, available under numerous brand names and most prominently Neurontin, prescribed against neurological disorders like pain in the nerves and seizures. While not considered a controlled substance by many authorities, it has nonetheless emerged as one of the most highly abused drugs because of its sedative and euphoric effects associated with high dosages or combination use with other substances.

Why Gabapentin is Abused

Euphoric Effects: High levels of gabapentin can induce relaxation and euphoria and, therefore, may be favored by persons looking for its recreational high.

Sedation: The depressant and sedative action may be useful to users in whom relief from anxiety or tension is desired.

Enhancement of Other Drugs: Gabapentin is abused sometimes together with opioids, benzodiazepines, or alcohol to achieve the aim of enhancing these drugs' actions .

Signs of Gabapentin Abuse

• Higher Dosage: There is the use of extreme dosage for a heightened effect.

• Doctors Shopping: They attend several doctors for prescription.

• Behavioral Changes: Withdrawal, secrecy, and sudden mood swings.

• Physical Symptoms: Somnolence, vertigo, blurred vision, or coordination problems.

Gabapentin Abuse Risks

Overdose: While gabapentin is unlikely to cause fatal overdose on its own, that becomes a far greater possibility when combined with other depressants, such as opioids.

Tolerance and Dependence: Long-term use produces tolerance, in that more of the drug will be required to achieve the current effect, and may result in dependence upon the drug.

Withdrawal symptoms: Stopping cold turkey will cause withdrawal symptoms like an anxiety puzzle insomnia, nausea, sweating, etc

Cognitive impairments: Chronic abuse can produce defects in memory, confusion, and loss of cognitive power.

Side Effects of Gabapentin

They are grouped into three categories;

•  Short Term Side Effects.

• Long Term Side Effects.

• Serious Long-Term Effects.

Short Term Side Effects include but not limited to the following:

•    Drowsiness

•    Dizziness

•    Poor coordination

•    Double vision

•    Fever

These can increase and decrease in severity based on how much gabapentin is being consumed and how often.

Long-Term Side Effects

Long-term gabapentin use has been known to create a number of health issues that can continue on long after use has ceased.  Some of the most common long-term side effects of gabapentin use can include the following:

• Mood changes

• Behavioral changes

• Depression

• Anxiety

• Memory loss

• Weakened muscles

Serious Side Effects

Serious long-term side effects when taking gabapentin may include but are not limited to:

•    Tremors.

•    Abdominal pain.

•    Blurred vision.

•    Weight gain.

•    Blood pressure changes.

•    Peripheral edema.

•    Anxiety.

•    Aggression.

•    Temporary amnesia.

Gabapentin Addiction Treatment

Medical Detoxification: This is a process in which the dosage is gradually reduced under the guidance of a medical expert so that the withdrawal symptoms are as minimal as possible.

Behavioral Therapies: Counseling and Cognitive-behavioral Treatment, CBT, for Psychological Addiction.

Support Groups: This approach uses the support groups and 12-step programs as part of recovery. The abuse of gabapentin is an emerging issue. Though considered less addictive than opioids, it still leads to severe health complications and addiction.

Inpatient care: When patients stay in a place for around 4 weeks, intensive group and individual therapy is carried out, along with round-the-clock support. Generally, aftercare and outpatient care are recommended, along with attendance to self-help meetings, to enable an individual to maintain sobriety.

Outpatient Care: the patient can maintain a home and visit a facility on a regular schedule for group and individual counseling sessions. This may be more or less intense depending on the individual's needs, and at times includes intensive care that also covers mental and physical health concerns.

Edited October 1 by nelson