What You Need to Know About Pregabalin (Lyrica) Overdoses

Prescription drug addiction is quickly becoming a public crisis due to the increasing number of overdoses linked to prescription drugs, including psychotherapeutic drugs and opioid analgesics.

Pregabalin is a prescription-only drug that is used to treat various conditions such as epilepsy, anxiety, and pain. It is in the class of drugs known as gabapentinoids, which are similar to the anticonvulsant drug gabapentin. Pregabalin has shown a significant potential for clinical abuse. In this guide, we'll go over how this type of overdose occurs and why we should be aware of it.

What Is Pregabalin (Lyrica) Used For? 

Pregabalin is a medication that is used to treat various conditions such as epilepsy, anxiety, and fibromyalgia. It has been shown to be effective in treating these conditions, but more research is needed to understand its full potential. It can also treat ailments such as musculoskeletal pain, sleep problems, fatigue, mood, and memory issues. Lyrica is also used to treat seizures, nerve pain, and spinal cord injuries. 

This mechanism is very similar to the effects encountered by patients using gabapentin, with a few key exceptions. Pregabalin is absorbed more slowly by the body and is less potent than Gabapentin. However, Pregabalin also has fewer side effects than Gabapentin and is more effective at treating neuropathic pain than Gabapentin.

How is Lyrica Misused?

Pregabalin is a medication that is used to treat seizures, anxiety, and pain. Unfortunately, the way that Pregabalin works to reduce nerve signaling can also lead to feelings of euphoria and pleasant drowsiness, which can lead to recreational use. People using Pregabalin recreationally may not be aware of the side effects or potential drug interactions. 

They may also become dependent on the drug and need more and more to achieve the same effect. This can lead to an increased risk of overdose.

Side Effects of Lyrica

Some common side effects of Lyrica include:

• Dry mouth

• Dizziness

• Speech problems

• Vomiting

• Weakness

• Sedation

• Peripheral edema

• Weight gain

• Increased appetite

• Constipation

• Infection

You may also experience some long-term, serious side effects such as:

• Blurred vision and changes in eyesight

• Itching

• Rash

• Hives

• Swelling of the eyes, face, throat, mouth, lips, gums, tongue, head, or neck

• Blisters

• Shortness of breath

• Wheezing

• Chest pain and difficulty breathing

• Bluish-tinged skin, lips, or fingernails

• Confusion

• Extreme sleepiness

• Depression

When to Know If Someone Is Overdosing on Lyrica?

There are both mental and physical symptoms that can occur when someone overdoses on Lyrica, and the risk for an overdose is increased when Lyrica is mixed with other drugs. Lyrica is a medication that has been marketed as an alternative to opioid medications. However, this does not mean that Lyrica doesn't have any dependency or overdose risks. 

Lyrica can be lethal if taken in doses higher than 600 milligrams per day. The following are signs of a Lyrica overdose:

• Irregular heart rate and blood pressure

• Possible loss of consciousness

• Difficulty breathing

• Tremors

• Mood swings or changes

• Excessive sweating

• Mental confusion

• Agitation

• Feelings of fatigue, drowsiness, and tiredness

• Depression

• Restlessness

Conclusion

Pregabalin overdose is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. It is important to seek medical attention immediately if you suspect someone has overdosed on pregabalin. Symptoms of pregabalin overdose include drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, and blurred vision.

If you are worried about Lyrica overdosing, Chorus for Life can help. We have a host of Lyrica information on our website as well as products to help support Lyrica users. Browse through our products now to learn more!