A Gabapentin High: Does This Really Happen?

What you will learn

• Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant medication that treats epilepsy, nerve pain, and other conditions by altering nerve signals in the brain and nervous system.
• Some people abuse gabapentin by taking higher doses than prescribed or combining it with other substances to achieve euphoric effects, leading several states to classify it as a controlled substance.
• Taking excessive amounts of gabapentin can cause immediate effects like severe drowsiness and coordination problems, while long-term abuse may lead to kidney problems, cognitive issues, and physical dependence.
• Misusing gabapentin creates legal risks and can make it harder to receive proper medical care, while suddenly stopping the medication can trigger dangerous withdrawal symptoms.
• Safe gabapentin use requires clear communication with healthcare providers, following prescriptions exactly, and being honest about medical history and any side effects experienced.

Gabapentin, a prescription medication primarily used to treat nerve pain and epilepsy, has become a growing concern in discussions about prescription drug misuse. While medical professionals prescribe this anticonvulsant for legitimate therapeutic purposes, some people have discovered ways to abuse gabapentin in search of euphoric effects.

What is Gabapentin?

Gabapentin belongs to a class of medications called anticonvulsants and works by altering the way nerves send signals throughout the nervous system.[1] Originally developed to treat epilepsy, doctors now prescribe this medication for various conditions, including nerve pain from shingles, diabetic neuropathy, fibromyalgia, and certain types of chronic pain conditions. The medication comes in several forms, including oral capsules, tablets, and liquid solutions.

The medication reduces abnormal electrical activity in the brain and changes how the body senses pain.[2] It achieves this by binding to specific calcium channels in the nervous system, which helps decrease the release of certain neurotransmitters in pain signaling and seizure activity. This mechanism makes gabapentin effective for many people who suffer from nerve-related conditions that haven’t responded well to other treatments.

Healthcare teams often start patients on a low dose of gabapentin and gradually increase it over time to reach the most effective level while minimizing side effects. The starting dose typically ranges from 100 to 300 milligrams per day, though final doses vary significantly based on the condition being treated and how each person responds to the medication. Common brand names for gabapentin include Neurontin, Gralise, and Horizant, though many people receive the generic version.

Do People Abuse Gabapentin?

Some people misuse gabapentin despite its intended medical purpose as an anticonvulsant and pain medication.[3] When taken at higher doses than prescribed or combined with other substances, people may seek euphoric effects or an altered mental state. This pattern of misuse has led several states to classify gabapentin as a controlled substance.

Warning signs of gabapentin abuse include running out of prescriptions early, seeking prescriptions from multiple doctors, claiming to have lost medications frequently, or experiencing withdrawal symptoms between doses. Physical symptoms of abuse might include extreme drowsiness, coordination problems, memory issues, and changes in mood or behavior.[4]

The Health Risks and Effects of Gabapentin Abuse

Taking excessive amounts of gabapentin in pursuit of a high creates numerous risks and potential health complications. These effects can vary from mild to severe and may worsen when combined with other substances.

Immediate Physical Effects

Taking large doses of gabapentin can cause severe drowsiness, unsteady movements, and blurred vision. The medication can also trigger nausea, tremors, and speech difficulties. Some people experience dizziness so intense it leads to dangerous falls. Coordination becomes significantly impaired, making driving or operating machinery extremely hazardous.

Mental Health Impact

High doses of gabapentin often result in confusion, memory problems, and mood changes.[5] Some people report feeling anxious, agitated, or experiencing panic attacks. The medication can also trigger depression or worsen existing mental health conditions. These psychological effects may persist even after the immediate effects wear off.

Long-Term Health Consequences

Regular gabapentin abuse can lead to kidney problems, weakened cognitive function, and chronic fatigue.[6] Over time, people may develop a physical dependence, making it increasingly difficult to stop using the medication. The brain adapts to the presence of high gabapentin levels, potentially causing lasting changes to neural pathways and neurotransmitter function.

Overdose Risks

While gabapentin overdose alone rarely causes death, combining it with other substances significantly increases the danger.[7] The medication can intensify the effects of alcohol, opioids, and other central nervous system depressants, potentially leading to severe respiratory depression or coma. These combinations create unpredictable and life-threatening situations.

The Dangers and Consequences of Seeking a Gabapentin High

Attempting to achieve a high from gabapentin creates serious risks that extend beyond the immediate health effects. Several states now classify gabapentin as a controlled substance due to its misuse potential.[8] Obtaining the medication without a prescription, forging prescriptions, or selling gabapentin can result in criminal charges. Doctor shopping or seeking multiple prescriptions from different healthcare providers may lead to felony charges and affect future medical care access.

People who misuse gabapentin often find it harder to receive proper medical care, as healthcare providers may become hesitant to prescribe necessary medications. Regular gabapentin abuse frequently leads to physical dependence, and stopping the medication suddenly can trigger severe withdrawal symptoms, including anxiety, sweating, tremors, and even seizures. These withdrawal effects can be dangerous and require medical supervision to manage safely.

Gabapentin abuse often strains relationships and affects job performance. Many people experience cognitive changes that impact their decision-making abilities and emotional regulation. The situation becomes even more dangerous when gabapentin is combined with other substances, particularly alcohol or opioids, creating a significantly higher risk of severe health complications or overdose.

Making Informed Decisions About Gabapentin Use

Proper gabapentin use starts with clear communication between patients and their healthcare providers. Taking the medication as prescribed helps ensure its effectiveness while minimizing potential risks. This means following the prescribed dosage, timing, and duration of treatment without making adjustments without medical guidance.

When starting gabapentin, it’s essential to discuss all current medications, supplements, and health conditions with prescribing doctors. This helps prevent dangerous drug interactions and ensures the medication is appropriate for each person’s specific situation. Patients should also be honest about any history of substance use, as this information helps doctors make safer prescribing decisions.

If side effects occur or the medication doesn’t seem to work as expected, patients should consult their healthcare provider rather than adjust doses independently. Some people may need dose adjustments or benefit from switching to a different medication entirely. Additionally, stopping gabapentin suddenly can be dangerous, so any plans to discontinue the medication should be discussed with a medical professional who can create a safe tapering schedule if needed.

You should also find a place for secure storage and disposal of unused medication. Never share prescriptions with others, even those with similar symptoms, as this can be dangerous and illegal. Regular check-ins with healthcare providers help ensure the medication continues to be the right choice for ongoing treatment.

How to Get Help

Professional help for gabapentin misuse involves specialized programs and healthcare teams experienced in both addiction treatment and pain management. Many treatment programs offer targeted support for people struggling with prescription drug abuse, particularly when multiple substances like opioids, benzodiazepines, or pregabalin are involved. These evidence-based programs can help manage withdrawal symptoms while addressing the underlying reasons for substance misuse, whether it stems from legitimate prescribing for conditions like diabetic neuropathy, postherpetic neuralgia, or epilepsy. The treatment team works to find alternative solutions for managing chronic pain and any mental health concerns that may have contributed to the development of gabapentin abuse.

The journey through outpatient or inpatient treatment focuses on safely managing the physical effects of gabapentin withdrawal while providing support for the central nervous system to readjust. Medical supervision becomes especially crucial when dealing with high doses or multiple substances, as withdrawal can trigger adverse effects, including seizures and severe anxiety. Treatment programs typically include medical care and counseling, helping people understand how gabapentinoids affect the brain’s neurotransmitters while developing healthy coping strategies.

Amanda is a prolific medical content writer specializing in eating disorders and addiction treatment. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from Purdue University with a B.S. in Social Work. Read more