Lyrica can definitely be addictive. The drug lyrica is a prescription medicine used to treat seizures and chronic pain. However, when mixed with other dangerous, illicit substances, it can quickly become addictive.
What is Lyrica?
Lyrica is a medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that has proven to be effective in halting seizures. It is an anticonvulsant, which means that pregabalin- the active ingredient in the drug- interacts with the chemicals in the brain to calm overactive nerves, effectively stopping seizures. Lyrica provides pain relief for chronic illnesses such as diabetes, fibromyalgia (nerve pain), spinal cord injuries, and herpes zoster. It is also prescribed for post-surgery pain and to manage anxiety disorders. It is sold in tablet form, to be taken once or more every day, or as prescribed by the doctor.
Why Is Lyrica A Controlled Substance
Lyrica is a Schedule V drug because it can be addictive and can cause damage if abused. But can Lyrica get you high? Although there is a low potential for abuse, yes, when used recreationally, Lyrica produces the same euphoric feelings as with any other recreational drug. It also makes the user feel calm, similar to being drunk, which earned Lyrica its nickname of ‘Budweiser.’
While some people misuse Lyrica so they can enjoy the pleasurable immediate after-effects, others abuse it as a way of self-medicating to relieve themselves of their pain. When used recreationally, it is often mixed with other lethal drugs that produce more pleasurable side effects in the short term, but can cause lasting damage and even death in the long-term. The drug is usually prescribed in tablet form to be taken orally, although it can also be consumed in liquid form for children.
Can you snort Lyrica? Snorting Lyrica is common among people who abuse it because the euphoric effects are felt faster that way.
Although anyone can develop an addiction to Lyrica- or any addictive substance- some people are at greater risk. Specifically, people who have a history of substance abuse (whether with Lyrica or other drugs), people who struggle with mental health disorders, people who are chronically ill or need a high dose of Lyrica to relieve themselves of pain, and elderly people, are all at greater risk of developing a Lyrica addiction.
Lyrica Addiction Statistics:
In a study conducted by BMJ journals, researchers reviewed all the cases of drug abuse that had ended up in their Emergency Department in one year, and found that ten of those patients were using Lyrica recreationally. All patients were between 20-35 years of age, six had seizures (5 of them for the first time), two had to be ventilated and intubated, and nine had to be hospitalized for at least 24 hours. Additionally, around 1 in 500 people using Lyrica may harbor suicidal thoughts, which can lead to suicide.
Signs of Lyrica addiction:
Many signs indicate an addiction to Lyrica. Like any addictive drug that is used recreationally, people may notice the adverse side effects and want to stop using the substance of choice but will find it almost impossible. They may realize that they are not functioning optimally, their relationships and other responsibilities may suffer, and they experience withdrawal symptoms after the pleasurable effects of the drug wear off, but quitting the drug altogether is out of reach. Watch out for the specific signs of Lyrica abuse (in addition to those mentioned above) so you identify a Lyrica addiction in yourself or your loved one:
- Cravings for Lyrica
- Taking larger doses of Lyrica than prescribed
- Getting prescribed Lyrica from different doctors
- Risky or impulsive behavior
- Mood swings
- Insomnia or drowsiness
- Memory loss
- Paranoia
- Aggressive or violent behavior
- Weight gain or loss
- Unexplained physical ailments
If you suspect that you or a loved one may be addicted to Lyrica, take action right away to ensure the least damage is caused to the user and those around them by the addiction.
Side-Effects of Lyrica Addiction:
Even when prescribed and taken according to the doctor’s recommendations, Lyrica can cause unpleasant physical and psychological side effects. Some people develop an allergic reaction that produces hives on the skin, swelling, and difficulty breathing.
Other physical side effects, which are more likely to occur if a person has kidney disease, heart disease, or lung disease, include:
- Dizziness
- Vision problems
- Hypertension
- Weight gain
- Tremors
- Difficulty breathing
- Aggression
- Drowsiness
Lyrica also causes psychological effects, especially in people who have a history of mental health disorders, like:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Suicidal thoughts
- Panic attacks
Lyrica is often mixed with other substances, such as alcohol, heroin, and opiates, to increase its euphoric effects. However, mixing Lyrica with other substances can also amplify the negative side effects, such as increasing drowsiness and dizziness. If you or your loved one are experiencing any of these side effects from prescribed Lyrica medication, it is best not to stop taking the drug abruptly, as it can cause uncomfortable or even dangerous withdrawal symptoms, such as headaches, worsened seizures, digestive problems, sweating, nausea, insomnia, and diarrhea. Rather, notify your doctor immediately to help you gradually decrease your dosage. The same is true for people who abuse the drug recreationally - find a medical professional or a reputable drug rehab facility where you can detox safely instead of quitting the drug on your own.
Lyrica Overdose and Suicide:
Unfortunately, Lyrica abuse can have devastating results. Here are some signs to look out for if you suspect a loved one may have overdosed on Lyrica:
- Mood swings
- Sweating
- Confusion
- Problems breathing
- Irregular blood pressure
- Irregular heart rate
- Tremors
- Drowsiness
- Loss of consciousness
Suicidal thoughts while taking Lyrica can lead to the user taking action to end their life. If you or your loved one is taking Lyrica - either under the supervision of a doctor, or recreationally - look out for these signs so you can identify suicidal thoughts and take action to prevent your loved one from committing suicide:
- Obsession with death or dying
- Insomnia
- Panic attacks
- Extreme depression or anxiety
- Manic behavior, such as increased energy levels
- Aggression or violence
Lyrica Addiction Treatment:
Lyrica addiction, like any addiction, controls the lives of those addicted. The user is dependent on the drug to function, although the side effects are unpleasant and even dangerous, and quality of life is greatly decreased.
But it’s important to know that there is a way out of addiction. You can live a beautiful, drug-free life with the right support, framework, and determination to succeed. Reach out to Avenues Recovery Center today so you can do a medically- supervised detox, engage in beneficial therapies and support groups, and pave your path to a drug-free life today. Our staff are experts in the addiction field and have helped thousands of people turn their lives around. No one is beyond hope. Contact us today to experience superior care in every way.