Gabapentin is a relatively new drug on the market, as such the information about it as a drug susceptible to abuse is less readily available than other drugs like heroin or Xanax. However, it is possible to become addicted to Gabapentin, and attempting to detox from it without professional help is incredibly difficult. At Ambrosia Treatment Center, our addiction specialists utilize the latest in drug abuse treatments, including contingency management and cognitive-behavioral therapy to help people suffering from Gabapentin addiction. These treatments have proven to be effective for our clients with substance abuse issues.

At Ambrosia Treatment Center, we have three locations throughout Florida and one in Pennsylvania. We offer motivational enhanced therapy which helps people with continued abstinence from drug use by having the recovering individual contrast the drug with the benefits of achieving and maintaining recovery. And in our cognitive behavioral therapy, individuals learn skills to help them deal with addiction-related situations as they arise. We offer a holistic and supportive approach within our nationally-recognized rehab program that focuses on each one of our client’s individual needs.

When you or a loved one are struggling with an addiction to a controlled substance like Gabapentin there is help. You don’t need to feel ashamed or feel as though you have to do it on your own. Ambrosia Treatment Center’s addiction specialists are well qualified to help anyone suffering from an addiction to any type of controlled substance. Our state-of-the-art treatment facilities provide a serene environment perfect for Gabapentin addiction rehabilitation and recovery.

What is Gabapentin?

Gabapentin is a controlled substance that falls under the drug family of Gabapentinoids or anticonvulsants, similar to Lyrica. They are used to suppress the nerve signals within a patient’s GABA neurotransmitter to create a calming euphoric feeling and to reduce nerve misfires which cause seizures. They do not affect the same receptors typically manipulated by other drugs that are prone to abuse such as opioids and benzodiazepines. Because of this Gabapentin is considered less likely to cause an addiction, however, it is still possible especially since it is often combined with other drugs to increase their effects.

Gabapentin is used to help with the treatment of the following health issues:

• Seizures and epilepsy treatment
• Restless leg syndrome
• Hot flashes
• Neuropathic pain caused by shingles or the herpes virus
• Diabetic neuropathy
• Fibromyalgia
• Cocaine or alcohol withdrawal symptoms

It is sold under a number of different brand names, including Gralise, Horizant, and Neurontin. Each brand is used to treat a different issue which is why it is important to only take Gabapentin when prescribed by a doctor. It it also known by the following street names, gabbies, johnnies, and morontin.

How Can You Tell if You Are Addicted to Gabapentin 

Any controlled-substance that alters the chemistry of the brain has an addictive nature to it because of the way they affect the chemistry of the brain. Gabapentin is considered a mild tranquilizer, and a Gabapentin high is compared to that of a cannabis high. Its addictive potential is considered low, however it is possible, and knowing the signs of Gabapentin addiction are important. 

A person dealing with Gabapentin addiction  could be suffering from any of the following symptoms both physical and psychological:

• Drowsiness or dizziness
• Tremors or Jerky movements
• Double vision or other unusual eye movements
• Fever
• Difficulty speaking
• Memory loss or confusion
• Depression or anxiety
• Lying about the usage of the drug
• Attempting to get extra doses
• Neglecting social habits and responsibilities
• A lack of concern for personal hygiene 
• Obsessive thoughts about the drug
• Failed attempts to quit to a refusal to quit

As with most controlled substances, the longer a person uses Gabapentin the larger the dose required to achieve the same effects. Dealing with a Gabapentin addiction can be quite complex in that it is typically a secondary addiction partnered with an addiction to another stronger substance since people often use Gabapentin as a booster. If you or a loved one are suffering from an addiction to Gabapentin seeking professional help is the best way to successfully deal with the Gabapentin withdrawal symptoms and to take control of your life again.

Gabapentin Side Effects 

Gabapentin 300mg is a typical dose for this type of drug and usually prescribed to be taken up to three times a day. Before taking Gabapentin it is very important to speak with a doctor about the safety of using it, as there are a number of health issues that would preclude a person from being able to use Gabapentin. It does have the potential to cause life-threatening breathing problems in certain people. Other side effects to watch for when using Gabapentin include:

• Hives or rash
• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling of lips, lips, tongue or throat
• Stomach pain and body aches
• Fever 
• Severe weakness
• Heightened anxiety, agitation or irritability
• Hyperactivity, impulsive behavior, restlessness
• Depression or Suicidal thoughts

All of these side effects are important to monitor when taking Gabapentin but particularly the behavioral changes as they can lead to suicidal thoughts. An overdose on Gabapentin is also considered quite dangerous as there is no antidote to instantly block the substance from affecting the brain the way there is with opioids like heroin or Vicodin. Attempting to detox from Gabapentin can be quite difficult and is not something that should be attempted alone. At Ambrosia Treatment Center we are here to help you every step of the way on your journey to recovery.

Get your health, future, and family back with top-rated compassionate care at one of our Drug Alcohol Rehab Centers. Recover at our therapeutic, sun-filled, palm tree-lined, addiction rehabilitation centers. Ambrosia Treatment Center Drug & Alcohol Rehab & Detox in-patient, out-patient, detoxification, substance abuse rehab centers provide advanced addiction recovery treatment.  Ambrosia’s drug & alcohol rehab experts have been featured in the media hundreds of times including at CBS, NBC, CNN, Washington Post, Forbes & The Wall Street Journal.   You’re in the right place to make real change.