Lyrica is a medication that relieves those who struggle with seizures or certain medical conditions that cause chronic pain. Unfortunately, like many other prescription drugs, Lyrica can also present unwanted side effects—including addiction—if misused. If you or a loved one needs help overcoming Lyrica addiction, Promises Brazos Valley is here to help. Contact us at 979.426.0086 to learn how our outpatient drug rehab can help you get off Lyrica safely.
What Is Lyrica?
Lyrica is the brand name for the anticonvulsant drug pregabalin. Although it is an anticonvulsant, it also has pain-relieving properties. Lyrica is available by prescription only and is used to treat:
- Seizure disorders
- Herpes zoster, also referred to as shingles
- Diabetes
- Fibromyalgia
- Spinal cord injuries
Although you must have a valid doctor’s prescription to access Lyrica legally, some people use it recreationally for its euphoric effects. A Lyrica high is sometimes described as being comparable to intoxication.
Is Lyrica Addictive?
Lyrica is classified as a Schedule IV drug by the United States Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), meaning it has a low potential for abuse and addiction. However, this does not mean it is entirely safe to use. Although the risk is lower than drugs classified as Schedules I through III, the potential is still there.
You or a loved one may be at greater risk of developing a Lyrica addiction if:
- You take larger doses of the drug than prescribed.
- You take the drug more often than prescribed.
- You use the drug without a doctor’s prescription.
- You take Lyrica alongside alcohol or other drugs.
Using Lyrica in any of the above manners is known as Lyrica abuse or misuse. Anytime you use Lyrica or any other addictive medication other than explicitly, as advised by your doctor, you are at an increased risk of addiction and other side effects.
Signs of Lyrica Addiction
Lyrica addiction can be detrimental to one’s health and safety, so you must recognize whether you or someone you know is developing a dependence on this drug. Here are some signs of Lyrica addiction to potentially familiarize yourself with to save someone’s life.
Changes in Mood
Using Lyrica other than as prescribed can lead to mood changes that can be particularly dangerous. Some people experience severe depression and suicidal thoughts. Others may encounter heightened anxiety, triggering manic episodes or panic attacks. Without intervention, the mental health effects of Lyrica addiction can be life-threatening.
Excessive Drowsiness
When used in high doses or mixed with other drugs or alcohol, Lyrica can lead to excessive drowsiness and slowed breathing. This is particularly hazardous when combining Lyrica with depressants like alcohol or benzodiazepines, as both substances amplify the sedative effects of one another. There is also an elevated potential for overdose when using Lyrica and depressants simultaneously, which can cause a loss of consciousness or inhibit breathing altogether.
Withdrawal Symptoms
One of the telltale signs of Lyrica addiction is withdrawal when not taking the drug. Some common Lyrica withdrawal symptoms include:
- Nausea
- Sweating
- Diarrhea
- Confusion
- Headaches
- Elevated heart rate
- Insomnia
- Seizures
- Drug cravings
If you notice these symptoms when you stop taking Lyrica or try to cut back your dosage, you have likely developed a dependence on the drug. But you can protect yourself from the dangers of Lyrica addiction by seeking help from an addiction treatment facility.
Recover from Lyrica Addiction at Promises Brazos Valley
If you are experiencing symptoms of Lyrica addiction, you owe it to yourself to get help from a reputable treatment program. The caring team at Promises Brazos Valley is dedicated to helping you heal and achieve the long-lasting recovery you deserve. To find freedom from Lyrica addiction, call us today at 979.426.0086 or reach out online.