It is not uncommon to see someone addicted to the mild tranquilizer Gabapentin. It's a common opiate substitute that can lead to addiction and withdrawal symptoms. But how do you spot the signs of Gabapentin abuse? Read on to learn more about the dangers of this drug. The dangers of Gabapentin abuse and the warning signs of addiction. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:

Gabapentin is a mild tranquilizer

If you are taking Gabapentin for your condition, you should know that it can have dangerous side effects. Among the more common side effects of gabapentin are respiratory depression, difficulty breathing, and emotional lability. You should immediately contact your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms. You should also avoid reducing your Gabapentin dosage without consulting your healthcare provider. You may also experience changes in your vision and experience drowsiness while taking Gabapentin. Before engaging in hazardous activities, you should know about the side effects of Gabapentin.

The Athens County Municipal Court's Substance Abuse Mentally Ill program does screen for gabapentin when abuse is suspected. However, this program does not regularly screen for gabapentin use, adding to the costs of treating addicts. Fortunately, there are rehab programs that regularly screen for gabapentin abuse. The county prosecutor's office also offers a program called Fresh Start, which tests for gabapentin. The program serves more than two hundred and thirty participants, and can test for gabapentin use.

It is commonly abused by people who are dependent on alcohol, cocaine or opioids

The misuse of gabapentin is widespread and varies in its motivations. Some individuals abuse gabapentin to improve mood and anxiety; others misuse it as a substitute for alcohol, cocaine or opioids, or as a self-medication. Gabapentin abuse is also increasing in populations with opioid dependency, and may affect a fraction of the world's population.

It is not clear why gabapentin is so frequently abused, but it is widely known that it can produce a high similar to marijuana. In addition to producing a "high" and enhancing sociability, gabapentin also produces a "zombie" effect. A survey conducted by Wilens and colleagues found that nearly 7 percent of U.S. adults aged 12 and older reported abusing psychotherapeutic drugs. This figure includes prescription and over-the-counter drugs.

It can lead to addiction

Treatment for gabapentin abuse can be a challenge, but the recovery process is possible. Treatment for gabapentin addiction can include detoxification, intensive outpatient treatment, and counseling. Residential treatment programs offer a more structured environment and 24 hour medical monitoring. They may also offer dual diagnosis treatment and nutrition counseling. Some residential programs include aftercare support groups. Depending on the severity of gabapentin abuse, residential rehab may be the best option for you.

In recent years, gabapentin has become increasingly popular as a non-narcotic alternative to opioid painkillers. It's also sometimes prescribed to relieve withdrawal symptoms from drugs. However, it carries the same risk of abuse and addiction. Gabapentin can cause severe adverse effects, including mood swings and suicidal thoughts. Because gabapentin can be addictive, it's vital to speak with a doctor if you suspect someone may be abusing the drug.

It can cause withdrawal symptoms

As with any other substance, gabapentin use can lead to withdrawal symptoms. In order to successfully rid the body of the drug, detoxification is essential. Detoxification programs for substance abuse are designed to help patients overcome withdrawal symptoms as quickly as possible. This is because gabapentin withdrawal symptoms may last from three to ten days. If left untreated, these symptoms can lead to further substance abuse.

Studies have shown that gabapentin use is linked to an increased risk of overdose deaths. However, gabapentin misuse is very rare in the general population and relatively high in populations using opioids. However, the risks are greater for people who abuse gabapentin. As with any drug, gabapentin abuse can lead to withdrawal symptoms, which can be painful and debilitating.

It can cause lethal overdoses

The dangers of gabapentin abuse are similar to those of other opioids. Overdoses can result in respiratory depression, which can lead to brain damage and death. In severe cases, patients may even go into a coma. Whether the cause is accidental or intentional, gabapentin abuse is highly dangerous and requires immediate medical attention. A gabapentin overdose is usually fatal, and there is no antidote for gabapentin.

Although gabapentin is not commonly abused, its high potency can lead to a lethal overdose if combined with alcohol, opioids, or both. It can also increase the risk of respiratory depression when combined with other drugs that depress the central nervous system. In extreme cases, gabapentin can be fatal if combined with alcohol, and it can even interact with drugs such as heroin. In such cases, immediate medical attention is crucial, and the overdose victim must be monitored by a physician to avoid further complications.