When used as prescribed, gabapentin is one of the safest medications available. However, when taken in high doses or paired with other drugs, it can cause serious side effects that may result in an overdose. An overdose can lead to slowed breathing, heart failure, and even death. This is why it is so important to take only the recommended dose of gabapentin. If you are experiencing symptoms of gabapentin overdose, seek emergency medical help immediately.
The medication was initially marketed and approved to treat seizures, but it is now prescribed for a variety of conditions including nerve pain and migraines. It is also used to help with certain types of cancer, shingles, and chronic pain due to diabetes or nerve damage. Gabapentin is usually absorbed by the body through the digestive system. It is available as tablets, capsules, and solution. It is primarily given orally, but it can also be administered intravenously if necessary. It is also a common ingredient in other prescription pain medications.
Although gabapentin is considered safe when taken as directed, it has become a popular drug for recreational use and abuse. Its calming effects are appealing to people who struggle with depression, anxiety, or other mood disorders. It is often abused by those who also suffer from opioid addiction, as it can be used to increase the strength and duration of an opioid high. Gabapentin overdose can occur when it is combined with other depressants such as alcohol or opioids, leading to dangerously slowed respiration.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, toxicology tests identified gabapentin in about 10% of overdose deaths in 2019 and 2020. In most cases, gabapentin was found in combination with opioids such as illicitly manufactured fentanyl and fentanyl analogs. The rise in gabapentin-related overdose deaths appeared to follow the increased rate of opioid-involved overdose deaths during the fentanyl pandemic.
Overdoses of gabapentin typically involve large doses, but even small doses can cause adverse effects. These include drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, ataxia, and tachycardia. In some cases, overdoses can also cause a loss of consciousness, which can lead to respiratory or cardiac arrest.
A recent study found that gabapentin can cause a severe and life-threatening reaction known as neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS). This condition is characterized by muscle spasms, confusion, a lack of coordination, and a wide range of other symptoms. It occurs when the brain does not receive enough oxygen, which is caused by reduced blood flow to the brain and spinal cord. The symptoms are similar to those of an opioid overdose, but NMS can be deadly if not treated quickly.
The best way to prevent a gabapentin overdose is to stop abusing the drug. If you are concerned that you or someone you know is addicted to this medication, call an inpatient rehab program to learn about treatment options. These programs can provide the intensive care needed to overcome a drug addiction. They also offer family therapy, group support, and relapse prevention classes to ensure long-term recovery.
