Gabapentin Abuse and How to Get Help

Learn about gabapentin abuse, its risks, and how to get help. Find gabapentin detox and recovery support at Massachusetts Center for Addiction in Quincy, MA.

Gabapentin is a prescription medication often used to treat nerve pain, seizures, and other conditions. While it’s generally considered safe when taken as directed, gabapentin abuse is becoming more common. People may misuse this drug for its calming or sedative effects, especially when combined with opioids or alcohol. This off-label drug use can lead to serious health risks, dependence, and even overdose.

If you or someone you love is struggling with gabapentin misuse, it’s important to understand what’s happening and how to get help. At Massachusetts Center for Addiction in Quincy, MA, we offer professional support to help individuals safely recover from prescription drug abuse, including gabapentin detox and long-term care options.

What Is Gabapentin and Why Do People Abuse It?

Gabapentin, commonly known by the brand name Neurontin, was first approved to treat epilepsy but is now mainly prescribed for nerve pain from conditions like shingles, diabetes, or injuries. It’s also used off-label for anxiety, insomnia, and other mental health issues. 

Although it was once considered low-risk for misuse, gabapentin abuse is on the rise. People may take it to enhance the effects of opioids or alcohol, ease withdrawal symptoms, or create a calming, mildly euphoric feeling. At high doses, it can cause dizziness and sedation, making it appealing to those seeking relief without turning to illegal drugs.

Warning Signs of Gabapentin Abuse

Because gabapentin is legally prescribed and doesn’t always cause intense effects, it can be hard to recognize when someone is abusing it. Here are some common signs of nerve pain medication misuse:

• Taking more gabapentin than prescribed or more often than directed
• Running out of prescriptions early or “doctor shopping”
• Appearing overly sedated, confused, or unsteady
• Using gabapentin in combination with other substances like opioids, benzos, or alcohol
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when stopping the drug suddenly
  

Some individuals may also isolate themselves, lose interest in activities, or struggle with work, school, or family responsibilities. These changes in behavior may be a sign that the person is struggling with dependence or addiction.

The Dangers of Misusing Gabapentin

Gabapentin abuse can be dangerous, especially when mixed with other drugs. Although gabapentin is not a controlled substance in many places, the risks of overdose and serious side effects increase when it is combined with depressants like alcohol, opioids, or benzodiazepines. These combinations can slow breathing and heart rate, leading to unconsciousness or even death.

Other potential health risks of gabapentin misuse include:

• Dizziness and falls
• Memory problems
• Mood changes or aggression
• Muscle weakness
• Suicidal thoughts in extreme cases

Long-term use at high doses may lead to physical dependence. This means that a person’s body adapts to the drug, and they may experience withdrawal symptoms if they try to stop taking it suddenly.

What to Expect from Gabapentin Detox and Treatment

Quitting gabapentin on your own can be challenging. Withdrawal symptoms can include anxiety, insomnia, nausea, sweating, and in some cases, seizures. That’s why medical supervision is often recommended during gabapentin detox. At Massachusetts Center for Addiction, we provide a safe, supportive environment for detox and ongoing recovery.

Our treatment for gabapentin abuse may include:

• Medical detox: To manage withdrawal symptoms and stabilize your health
• Individual therapy: To understand the reasons behind drug use and develop healthy coping skills
• Group counseling: To connect with others who are on a similar recovery journey
• Mental health support: Especially if gabapentin was being used to self-medicate for anxiety, depression, or insomnia
• Aftercare planning: To help prevent relapse and build a strong foundation for long-term recovery
  

Treatment is personalized to meet each person’s unique needs. Whether you’re dealing with a mild dependency or more severe drug use, our team will work with you to create a plan that supports lasting recovery.

Getting Help for Gabapentin Abuse in Massachusetts

If you or a loved one is struggling with gabapentin abuse, don’t wait to get help. Misusing nerve pain medications can lead to serious health risks and make it harder to break free from the cycle of addiction. But recovery is possible—with the right support, you can reclaim your health and build a better future.

At the Massachusetts Center for Addiction in Quincy, MA, we specialize in helping individuals recover from prescription drug misuse, including gabapentin detox and comprehensive care plans. Our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way with compassion, professionalism, and respect.