Snorting Lyrica | Dangers Of Pregabalin Insufflation

Lyrica (pregabalin) is the brand name of a generic prescription drug developed to treat convulsions and seizures. Lyrica acts as a central nervous system depressant, affecting the brain’s neurotransmitters to produce sedation effects. It may be prescribed to treat nerve damage from shingles infection, spinal cord injury, or diabetes.

The schedule V prescription medication treats other health conditions such as epilepsy, anxiety, and fibromyalgia. While Lyrica is often safely prescribed for treating nerve pain, it can be habit-forming when abused.

Misuse of pregabalin is known to cause a high similar to benzodiazepines. Individuals who abuse Lyrica may crush the medication into a fine powder and snort the drug to feel faster euphoric effects.

Snorting Lyrica is dangerous and may lead to damage to nasal membranes and cause permanent loss of smell. Snorting this medication is a sign of substance use disorder.

Side Effects Of Snorting Lyrica

When under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional and used as prescribed, Lyrica has side effects that include lethargy and weight gain.

More research is currently needed to determine the potential unknown adverse effects of misuse of CNS depressants like pregabalin.

When Lyrica is abused at high doses, drug use may lead to drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion. Individuals who suffer from mental health issues may be at an increased risk of hallucinations, episodic depression, and suicidal thoughts.

Other effects of pregabalin abuse include:

• insomnia
• constipation
• confusion
• nausea and vomiting
• muscle weakness
• difficulty breathing
• hallucinations
• generalized anxiety disorder
• suicidal thoughts

Lyrica may reduce fertility in males. Further, the prescription medication may increase risks for pregnant women of giving birth to infants with congenital birth defects.

Signs And Symptoms Of Snorting Lyrica

Any individual who abuses Lyrica without a prescription and guidance of a qualified medical professional is at high risk for developing a Lyrica drug addiction.

This generic medication is low in cost and easy to obtain, which increases Lyrica’s abuse potential. Individuals who are addicted to Lyrica are more likely to snort the medication or to inject the medication intravenously, than to use it orally.

Individuals who abuse the drug with opiates such as oxycodone, methadone, or diazepam, cannabis, or alcohol are at increased risk of adverse side effects.

When an individual habitually abuses Lyrica and becomes chemically dependent or addicted to the drug, their body will become unable to function properly without the medication. Stopping the medication will cause withdrawal symptoms.

Some symptoms of Lyrica addiction include:

• fever
• heart palpitations
• depression/anxiety
• impaired memory
• difficulty speaking
• loss of coordination
• dizziness

Other behavioral signs of Lyrica addiction are similar to addiction of other prescription medications and controlled substances.

Signs of Lyrica addiction include:

• lying about Lyrica use or exaggerating medical symptoms to a doctor
• neglect of personal and professional responsibilities
• refusing to quit Lyrica despite legal, social, or financial ramifications
• hiding or lying about drug abuse to friends and family
• self-isolating behavior

Lyrica Withdrawal

Lyrica withdrawal symptoms are similar to withdrawal from benzodiazepines, alcohol, and opioids. Withdrawal symptoms are caused by the brain and body’s chemical dependence on Lyrica.

The severity and duration of withdrawal symptoms depend on the longevity and frequency of use of pregabalin.

Acute withdrawal symptoms from Lyrica substance misuse will occur within 24 hours after the last dose of the drug. When abused habitually at higher doses, withdrawal symptoms may last two weeks.

For other individuals who abused Lyrica at a lower dose and with less frequency, withdrawal symptoms may last for several days.

It is not recommended for people who have become chemically dependent or addicted to Lyrica to stop the medication abruptly.

Signs of pregabalin withdrawal may include:

• seizures
• confusion
• anxiety
• cravings
• heart palpitations
• nausea and vomiting
• agitation
• diarrhea
• suicidal thoughts
• extreme sweating
• mood changes
• depression
• insomnia

It’s important to consult with a prescribing medical professional before starting or stopping this prescription medication.

Lyrica Addiction Treatment Options

Research indicates that chronic abuse of Lyrica may lead to chemical dependency and physical tolerance to the drug. It is not recommended to stop Lyrica abruptly after chemical dependency and addiction is established.

Studies suggest Lyrica withdrawal syndrome may occur in chronic users of Lyrica who abruptly discontinue use.

Substance abuse treatment for Lyrica abuse generally begins with monitored detoxification as the addicted individual begins to experience acute withdrawal symptoms.

Inpatient or residential treatment options may be recommended to ensure an addicted individual safely and effectively detoxes from Lyrica.

Medically supervised treatment may include a gradual tapering schedule to avoid severe withdrawal symptoms and ensure safe detox from the drug.

If you or someone you know suffers from Lyrica addiction, or if you have questions about the rehab programs available for this substance use disorder, please connect with one of our treatment specialists today.

Written by the Addiction Resource Editorial Staff