Gabapentin, commonly prescribed for nerve pain and seizures, has become a widely used medication in recent years. While it’s generally considered safer than opioids, concerns about its potential for misuse and addiction have grown. Many people wonder: Can you get addicted to gabapentin? The answer isn’t straightforward—while gabapentin isn’t classified as a controlled substance everywhere, cases of dependence and abuse have been reported.
Whether you’re taking gabapentin as prescribed or are concerned about a loved one’s use, understanding the risks can help ensure safe and effective medication management. Discover how gabapentin works, its addictive potential, signs of misuse, withdrawal symptoms, and rehabilitation programs at Agape Treatment Center.
What Is Gabapentin?
Gabapentin (brand names Neurontin, Gralise, and Horizant) is an anticonvulsant and nerve pain medication. Originally developed to treat epilepsy, it’s now commonly prescribed for:
- Neuropathic pain (nerve damage from diabetes, shingles, or injuries)
- Restless legs syndrome
- Fibromyalgia
- Anxiety and mood disorders (off-label use)
Outside of human use, veterinarians also commonly prescribe this medication to help pets, such as cats, tolerate travel or everyday anxiety. Unlike opioids, gabapentin doesn’t directly bind to brain receptors associated with euphoria. However, some users report feeling relaxed or mildly euphoric at high doses, which has led to recreational misuse.
How Does Gabapentin Work in the Body?
Gabapentin affects the central nervous system in several ways:
- Modulates Calcium Channels: Gabapentin binds to the α2δ subunit of voltage-gated calcium channels in the central nervous system. This binding reduces the release of excitatory neurotransmitters like glutamate, which helps calm overactive nerve signals that cause seizures and neuropathic pain.
- Increases GABA Production: While gabapentin doesn’t directly interact with GABA receptors, it appears to boost the synthesis and release of this inhibitory neurotransmitter. The increased GABA activity contributes to gabapentin’s calming effects on the nervous system, helping reduce seizure activity and anxiety symptoms.
- Alters Dopamine Release: Some research suggests gabapentin may indirectly affect dopamine pathways in the brain’s reward system. This potential dopamine modulation might explain why some users experience mild euphoria at high doses, contributing to its abuse potential in vulnerable individuals.
- Reduces Abnormal Electrical Activity: By stabilizing nerve cell membranes, gabapentin prevents the erratic firing of neurons that leads to seizures. This same mechanism helps quiet the hyperexcited nerves that cause chronic neuropathic pain conditions.
- Decreases Substance P Levels: Gabapentin appears to lower concentrations of substance P, a neurotransmitter involved in pain signaling. This reduction in substance P contributes to gabapentin’s effectiveness in treating various types of chronic pain syndromes.
Can You Get Addicted To Gabapentin?
It is possible to get addicted to Gabapentin. However, medical professionals are still debating the addictive potential of gabapentin. This is because while there are cases of Gabapentin addiction, it’s not as common as other prescription substance abuse. Here are some key points in the debate on whether Gabapentin should count as an addictive substance:
Drug Classification
Gabapentin is not classified as a controlled substance at the federal level in the United States. Some states classify it as a Schedule V substance while others require special reporting on Gabapentin prescriptions. However, Florida is not one of these states. The FDA does not currently classify Gabapentin as a controlled substance, though some states have reclassified it due to abuse reports.
Low Risk
Most patients taking Gabapentin for medical reasons don’t develop addiction. For this reason, it’s considered a low-risk prescription. Though, some factors may impact this, such as if the patient has a history of opioid addiction. In these cases, addiction to Gabapentin may have a higher risk.
Psychological and Physical Effects
Gabapentin does have the potential for individuals to develop a psychological dependence. While it’s a smaller effect than some other substances, Gabapentin can induce a feeling of euphoria. Some users chase its calming effects, leading to compulsive use.
Individuals can also develop a physical dependence to this drug. Long-term use can lead to withdrawal symptoms when stopped abruptly. While Gabapentin addiction is less common than opioid or benzodiazepine addiction, it can happen, especially in people with a history of substance abuse.
Gabapentin Dependence vs. Addiction: What’s the Difference?
The key difference between Gabapentin dependence vs addiction is the definition of the terms. Dependence means the body adapts to the drug, leading to withdrawal symptoms if use stops suddenly. Addiction involves compulsive use despite negative consequences.
Gabapentin Dependence
The following is true about Gabapentin dependence:
- Develops after prolonged use, even at prescribed doses.
- Stopping abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms, such as anxiety, insomnia,and
- Doesn’t always involve cravings or loss of control over use.
Gabapentin Addiction
Gabapentin addiction is much more serious than dependence. The following is true about Gabapentin addiction:
- Addiction is characterized by cravings, escalating doses, and secretive behavior.
- Individuals continue to use the substance despite health, legal, or social problems.
- Gabapentin addiction is more likely in people with a history of substance abuse.
Not everyone dependent on Gabapentin is addicted, but dependence can lead to addiction in vulnerable individuals.
Signs and Symptoms of Gabapentin Misuse
Recognizing Gabapentin misuse early is crucial for preventing dependence and addiction. The following behavioral, physical, and psychological signs may indicate problematic use:
Behavioral Signs
Behavioral indicators of Gabapentin abuse include:
- Taking higher doses than prescribed: Individuals may gradually increase their dosage without medical approval to achieve stronger effects, such as sedation or euphoria.
- Using Gabapentin without a prescription: Obtaining Gabapentin from friends, family, or illicit sources suggests recreational rather than medical use.
- Crushing, snorting, or injecting pills: Altering the medication’s form to intensify or accelerate its effects is a clear sign of abuse.
- Frequent requests for early refills: Running out of prescriptions prematurely or “losing” medication may indicate misuse.
- Doctor shopping or visiting multiple pharmacies: Seeking prescriptions from different providers to obtain larger quantities is a red flag for addiction.
- Neglecting responsibilities: Work, school, or home obligations may be ignored due to preoccupation with obtaining and using Gabapentin.
Physical Symptoms
Physical symptoms of Gabapentin misuse include:
- Excessive drowsiness or sedation: High doses can cause extreme lethargy, slurred speech, or impaired coordination.
- Dizziness and confusion: Users may appear disoriented, have trouble concentrating, or experience blurred vision.
- Nausea and vomiting: Abrupt increases in dosage or mixing Gabapentin with other depressants can lead to gastrointestinal distress.
- Tremors or muscle twitching: Uncontrollable shaking may occur, especially during withdrawal or intoxication.
Psychological and Emotional Signs
Common psychological and emotional signs that Gabapentin misuse may cause include:
- Cravings for Gabapentin: A strong urge to use the drug, even when it causes negative consequences, suggests addiction.
- Mood swings or irritability: Rapid shifts between euphoria and agitation may occur, particularly when the drug wears off.
- Increased anxiety or depression: Some users experience worsened mental health symptoms when not taking Gabapentin.
- Social withdrawal or secrecy: Hiding usage habits or avoiding friends and family to use Gabapentin alone indicates problematic behavior.
Those who exhibit these behaviors and thought patterns would benefit from seeking professional help, including enrolling in a therapy program to address the root issue that contributed to Gabapentin abuse.
Risky Behaviors Associated with Misuse
In addition to the signs of Gabapentin abuse, there’s also risky behaviors that substance abuse can encourage, including:
- Combining Gabapentin with alcohol or opioids: Polydrug use significantly increases the risk of respiratory depression and fatal overdose.
- Continuing use despite negative consequences: Persistent Gabapentin consumption despite health problems, financial strain, or damaged relationships is a hallmark of addiction.
- Overdose: Though a fatal overdose is rare, it is possible. Seek emergency help if you suspect you or a loved one overdosed on Gabapentin.
If you or someone you know exhibits these signs, seeking professional help and substance abuse treatment can prevent further harm. Early intervention improves recovery outcomes.
Gabapentin Withdrawal: Symptoms and Timeline
Stopping Gabapentin abruptly, especially after prolonged use or high doses, can trigger withdrawal symptoms as the body struggles to readjust without the drug. The severity and duration of withdrawal depend on factors like dosage, duration of use, and individual physiology. Below is a detailed breakdown of common withdrawal symptoms and their typical progression:
Common Withdrawal Symptoms
After an individual stops using Gabapentin after a higher dose or a prolonged amount of time, they may experience withdrawal symptoms such as:
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Insomnia and nightmares
- Nausea and sweating
- Tremors or seizures (rare but serious)
Gabapentin Withdrawal Timeline
The withdrawal process varies but generally follows this pattern:
- First 24–48 hours: Early symptoms like anxiety, restlessness, and insomnia typically emerge within the first two days after stopping Gabapentin.
- Days 3–7: Symptoms peak in intensity, often including nausea, sweating, mood swings, and strong cravings for the drug.
- Week 2: Physical symptoms (nausea, tremors) usually subside, but psychological effects like depression and insomnia may persist.
- Weeks 3–4: Most acute symptoms fade, though some individuals experience lingering anxiety or sleep disturbances.
- Post-Acute Withdrawal (PAWS): In rare cases, emotional instability or fatigue may last for months, particularly in long-term users.
Withdrawal can be challenging, but medical support significantly improves outcomes. If you’re considering stopping Gabapentin, consult a healthcare provider to create a safe plan.
Gabapentin and Polydrug Abuse: Risks of Mixing with Other Substances
Gabapentin is frequently misused in combination with other substances, which can lead to dangerous interactions and increased risk of overdose. Below are the most common and hazardous polydrug combinations involving Gabapentin:
- Gabapentin and Opioids: Mixing Gabapentin with opioids like oxycodone or heroin significantly increases the risk of fatal respiratory depression. This dangerous combination can slow breathing to dangerous levels and has been linked to numerous overdose deaths.
- Gabapentin and Alcohol: Combining Gabapentin with alcohol intensifies the sedative effects of both substances, leading to severe drowsiness and impaired coordination. This mixture also dramatically increases the risk of blackouts, accidents, and alcohol poisoning.
- Gabapentin and Benzodiazepines: When taken with benzodiazepines like Xanax or Valium, Gabapentin can cause extreme sedation and respiratory suppression. This combination is particularly dangerous because both drugs work on the central nervous system, multiplying their depressant effects.
- Gabapentin and Muscle Relaxants: Combining Gabapentin with muscle relaxants like cyclobenzaprine can lead to excessive drowsiness and motor impairment. This mixture increases fall risks and may cause dangerous drops in blood pressure.
- Gabapentin and Antidepressants: Mixing Gabapentin with certain antidepressants can amplify side effects like dizziness and confusion. Some SSRI/SNRI combinations with Gabapentin may also increase the risk of serotonin syndrome in rare cases.
- Gabapentin and Sleep Medications: When combined with sleep aids like Ambien or Lunesta, Gabapentin can cause extreme drowsiness and next-day impairment. This combination frequently leads to dangerous sleepwalking episodes or memory lapses.
Seeking Help for Gabapentin Misuse and Addiction
If you or a loved one are struggling with Gabapentin misuse or addiction, early intervention is key. Agape Treatment Center is proud to serve the Fort Lauderdale, FL, community. With compassionate, highly-trained staff, we offer programs such as:
- Substance Abuse Treatment
- Dual Diagnosis
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
- Day / Night PHP Treatment
- Psychotherapy
A healthier, happier life free from substance dependence is possible. Contact us today to learn more about our admissions process and treatment options.
Stephanie Robilio is an accomplished Clinical Director at Agape Behavioral Healthcare. With a Master of Social Work degree, LCSW license, and extensive training in Rapid Resolution Therapy under her belt, she brings a wealth of expertise to her role. Her unique combination of education and experience allows her to provide exceptional care to clients and lead her team with confidence. Stephanie’s joy comes from witnessing the moments when her patients creatively connect the dots and bravely move toward reclaiming their power. Her purpose is to help individuals understand their past so they can create a future full of hope, growth, and success. Stephanie attributes a large portion of her success to the supportive culture and strong sense of community fostered by the Agape team.
