Author: Gary Jackson

Gabapentin Overdose: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment The Recovery Village Palm Beach at Baptist

In cases where Gabapentin use is necessary, close supervision and possibly more frequent appointments may be warranted to ensure patient safety. A medically supervised detoxification process is often recommended, especially for those who have developed a dependence on Gabapentin. This process typically involves a gradual tapering of the medication to minimize withdrawal symptoms, which can include agitation, confusion, and seizures. Other physical manifestations of a Gabapentin overdose can include gastrointestinal disturbances such as diarrhea. In some cases, patients may exhibit signs of sedation, which is a direct consequence of the drug’s impact on the central nervous system. Gabapentin is designed to suppress neural hyperactivity, which can result in these observable physical symptoms during an overdose scenario.

Signs & Symptoms of a Gabapentin Overdose

Both men and women were almost equally likely to overdose on gabapentin. However, it is possible to overdose on gabapentin, especially when taken in combination with other substances. A growing body of literature shows that gabapentin overdoses can cause potentially serious physical and psychological effects. This happens because alcohol and Gabapentin are both depressants which reduce nerve activity. Although Gabapentin overdose is uncommon compared to other drugs and opioids, it’s still possible. The main cause of Gabapentin overdose is abusing Gabapentin by mixing it with alcohol or other drugs, especially opioids.

Gabapentin use may cause more significant side effects, such as mood swings, behavioral abnormalities, and severe allergic reactions. Consult your doctor if you or a loved one experiences these adverse effects. Gabapentin is not addictive, but this doesn’t mean that gabapentin can’t be abused. Gabapentin is available as both a brand name product and a generic product (chemically the same, usually lower cost than the brand name product).

Gabapentin and Alcohol: Can You Drink Alcohol With Gabapentin?

Patients with kidney disease, respiratory issues, or a history of depression or substance use disorders should use gabapentin with caution. The dosing schedule is similarly structured to gradually increase the maintenance dose for postherpetic neuralgia. It is crucial to follow a healthcare provider’s dosing instructions to minimize the risk of adverse effects and overdose. The most common symptoms of gabapentin withdrawal are agitation, excessive sweating, stomach upset, tremor, fast heartbeat, high blood pressure, and insomnia. Withdrawal from gabapentin is more likely to occur in individuals who have a history of substance use disorder and who take daily doses of gabapentin greater than or equal to 3000 mg. The likelihood of an overdose increases when you abuse gabapentin with other drugs like opioids and alcohol.

  1. If you or a loved one is struggling with gabapentin abuse, help is available at The Recovery Village at Palmer Lake.
  2. Gabapentin use may cause more significant side effects, such as mood swings, behavioral abnormalities, and severe allergic reactions.
  3. While the risk of overdosing on gabapentin may be lower than that of other, stronger drugs, that doesn’t mean it can’t happen.
  4. Serious breathing problems can happen if you take gabapentin with drugs that cause severe sleepiness or decreased awareness.
  5. Gabapentin usually doesn’t cause feelings of pleasure or euphoria, making it less likely to be misused.
  6. While this means gabapentin is a relatively safe drug, it still should not be ingested in large amounts.

Understanding the Misuse of Gabapentin and Risks of Overdose

GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter, meaning that brain cells release it to slow down the function of other brain cells. Taking too much gabapentin can enhance this slow-down effect, making the drug’s side effects more pronounced. Overdose on Gabapentin causes side effects that can be distressing and difficult to manage, and even life-threatening. It must be addressed instantly to avoid significant or long-term complications.

Drug and Alcohol Addiction

So far, there have been only two peer-reviewed case reports of death12from gabapentin toxicity (related to gabapentin overdose). Despite this low statistic, gabapentin abuse as a suicide attempthas risen over the years. If you are struggling with a drug or alcohol addiction, it might be time for professional treatment.

When taken alone or combined with other medications, gabapentin may induce respiratory depression. If you or someone you know is experiencing an overdose or toxic reaction to gabapentin, seek immediate medical attention. Don’t administer any medications or drinks unless instructed by qualified medical professionals. If you or a loved one is struggling with gabapentin abuse, help is available at The Recovery Village at Palmer Lake. Contact our intake experts today to learn more about treatment programs that can work well for your situation.

Gabapentin Treatment & Rehab Locations Near Me

This is especially true if you suspect the person has taken gabapentin with other substances.

Contact Carolina Center for Recovery today to learn about your addiction treatment options. Once medical services arrive, they can begin treating the symptoms of a gabapentin overdose. If the person has combined gabapentin with opioids, the person may be given naloxone to help reverse the overdose.