Facts About Neurontin Addiction

Initially, doctors believed Neurontin (generic name of gabapentin) had very few addictive properties. They also thought it was a miracle drug because it successfully curtailed nerve pain and seizures without addiction issues. Several years later, the thinking is starting to change within the medical community. Yes, the drug is very useful in combating severe nerve pain and seizures, but it may be more addictive than originally thought. Today, Neurontin addiction is something that demands our attention.

Facts About Neurontin Addiction

Scientifically, Neurontin is an analog of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which decreases nerve activity in the brain. This results in the diminishing of pain and nerve activity. Currently, the FDA has chosen not to list this drug as a controlled substance. They haven’t classified it as such because of the drug’s low propensity for creating an addiction. Based on laboratory results, that may be true if one considers a traditional addiction that culminates in the reward and motivation centers in the brain. Unfortunately, the facts from the street paint another picture.

The truth is Neurontin produces some rather significant side effects. These side effects are pretty much on par with the side effects created by other painkillers such as Oxycontin. They include:

• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Memory loss
• Muscle aches
• Nausea and vomiting

As for withdrawal symptoms, again, abused Neurontin produces the same kinds of withdrawal symptoms as opiate-based drugs. These withdrawal symptoms include:

• Hallucination
• Diminished motor activity
• Suicidal thoughts
• Tremors
• Severe muscle and stomach cramping

The fact is Neurontin addiction is a real condition. It may not create a traditional type addiction, but it still carries all the signs of a real addiction. It’s worth noting that the FDA’s classification of Neurontin makes the drug very dangerous. People might abuse this substance under the impression they don’t have to worry about Neurontin addiction. The reality is they do need to worry about Neurontin abuse.

Treatment for Neurontin Addiction

We accept the fact Neurontin acts like any other opioid. Therefore, it makes sense that clinicians treat Neurontin addiction the same as an addiction to Oxycontin. Most of the time, detox is going to be necessary before therapy can begin. The patient needs detox to get past the cravings for the drug. They also need time to clear the residual drugs from their system.

During therapy, the patient and their substance abuse counselor will go on a mission of discovery. The task at hand is for the patient to learn the truth about their addiction. At a quality drug rehab like Beaches Recovery, counselors will use both individual and group therapies for treatment. When the facts become clear, the patient can begin to work on the appropriate coping skills. These coping skills hold the key to lasting recovery.

Beaches Recovery – A Premier Drug Treatment Center

Beaches Recovery resides in the community of Jacksonville, Florida. We are Joint Commission accredited and accept many forms of payment, including most major healthcare providers. Our top class substance abuse treatment includes detox at Tides Edge, individualized treatment, and counseling. We also offer an excellent selection of aftercare programs for our graduating patients.

What sets us apart from other rehabs is our commitment to treating each patient as an individual. To enhance this process, our counselors will employ one of the following treatment options:

• Residential drug rehab
• Extended care
• Outpatient care
• Partial hospitalization program
• Family counseling services
• Dual diagnosis treatment

Before you let any drug addiction destroy your life, we hope you will have a moment of clarity. During this time, we hope you realize you have other options. Your best choice is admitting you have an illness and ask for help.

You can receive the help you need at Beaches Recovery center. All it takes for you to get started on recovery is one call to us at 866.605.0532. You may not remember, but life can be wonderful if you say goodbye to the cycle of Neurontin addiction.