Lyrica is the brand name for pregabalin, a medication used to treat seizures, providing pain relief to people with diabetes, spinal cord injuries, and even herpes zoster. Herpes zoster causes painful rashes and blisters. Lyrica comes as a capsule and liquid, and a person can take a variety of dose strengths. Pregabalin tends to leave people with an intense feeling of realization and calmness. Although the drug was first sold in America, pregabalin addiction seems more common in the UK and Ireland. So, the answer is yes. You can get addicted to pregabalin. This specific addiction may have come from the fact that the UK does not sell other prescription painkillers like Valium or many other opiates the way America does.
Side Effects for Pregabalin
Is pregabalin a controlled substance? In some countries, the drug can be purchased over the counter, yet in many countries, people will abuse the medication and, if found illegally, there are consequences. In America, Lyrica is a Schedule 5 substance, meaning that it is not considered addictive or of high risk compared to other prescription drugs but you can get addicted to pregabalin. Still, the unwanted side effects come in a significant package, and many avoid this particular prescribed medication to skip the potential dangers. So, what are the side effects? Take immediate action if you experience these repercussions while taking the drug:
- Chest pain
- Cold sweats
- Cool, pale skin
- Cough producing mucus
- Muscle aches, twitching or jerking, or weakness
- Sores, ulcers, or white spots in the mouth or on the lips
- Puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue
The pregabalin dose may depend on the severity of the side effects. More common effects on the body include symptoms of trembling or lack of muscle control, blurred vision, dry mouth, and confusion or difficulty when speaking. There can also be loss of appetite, anxiety, bladder control, and bloating. These side effects are not as common, but they are possible while taking this medication.
Does Pregabalin Cause Weight Gain?
There are many Lyrica effects on the body and the mind. Weight gain is a common side effect of most prescription drugs. Many patients stop using the drug due to a rapid increase in the size of their bodies. This gain may be associated with higher doses and a longer duration of the use of the drug. Also, Lyrica treatment may cause peripheral edema, which causes swelling in the hands, legs, and feet. Not many studies have been conducted regarding blood pressure or an increase in heart health because of weight gain. Yet, abnormal heartbeat is a common side effect and swelling and shortness of breath.
Is Pregabalin Addictive?
Yes, it is advisable only to consume the drug if prescribed and only for a short period, and only upon necessity. You can get addicted to pregabalin since the drug releases many “feel good” chemicals that cause the body to respond positively and adapt, depending on the drug.
Statistically, addiction is commonly found in low developed areas or poorer neighborhoods and is typically overprescribed. There is an addictive Lyrica high that people search for, creating a sense of euphoria, but it is not as strong as other drugs. Even so, there are many side effects that result in many health risks.
Help for Prescription Drug Addiction
At our Pompano substance abuse treatment center, our team of specialists and licensed therapists are dedicated to getting our patients safely through withdrawals and continue completing all the steps until recovery. For people who are addicted to medications, we offer prescription drug addiction treatment that work according to your needs.
It is essential to begin the steps to recovery soon after realizing that the effects of drug use are negatively affecting your body, mind, and life. We want to help you get back to the productive lifestyle that will ensure the quality of life for you and those around you! From family programs to individual therapy plans, together, we can recover.
Contact Banyan Treatment Center today at 888-280-4763 to learn more about our levels of care for substance abuse treatment.
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