In recent years, Gabapentin prescriptions have increased by quite a bit. It’s cause for concern because where there is smoke, there is usually fire. Or, in other terms where medications are concerned, where there is availability, there often comes abuse. That said, it should come as no surprise, either, that Gabapentin overdose is on the rise.
The problem? People underestimate its danger. It has recently come into use as a help for people with epilepsy or nerve pain. The good news? It’s not an opioid, so addiction is less likely. The bad news? It is abused because of the “feel good” effects and is often doubled up with alcohol or other drugs. Therein lies a bigger danger.
An overdose is very real and often deadly when mixed with other substances.
Gabapentin Overdose and Opioids
This idea of “it’s non-addictive, so it’s safe” causes many issues. It is the illusion of safety. It allows people to say, “It just calms things down; what could be so bad about that?”
While this is somewhat true (the calming you down part), high doses get you high. It’s a drug that people take thinking it is a safe option for feeling good. So why not bump up the experience a bit? This is typically the mindset that brings about disaster.
In the case of opioids, the combo offers a boosted sedative effect. And when it escealtes to Gabapentin overdose, it could mean your breathing is sedated to such a degree that it nearly stops or actually does stop.
A 2021 study showed Gabapentin was involved in 9.7% of opioid-related overdose deaths source: CDC.
Signs of Gabapentin Overdose
While an overdose on just Gabapentin is possible, it is less common than a deadly overdose of Gabapentin mixed with another substance. By itself, gabapentin overdose (without substance mix) is not quite as lethal. But when it is used with other central nervous system depressants such as opioids, alcohol, or benzodiazepines, an overdose is life-threatening.
Overdose Symptoms
- Physical signs: confusion, dizziness, slow breathing.
- Severe symptoms: unconsciousness, seizures, respiratory failure.
- Risks of mixing substances.
Overdosing on Gabapentin isn’t subtle. It starts as confusion—like you’re mentally underwater. Then dizziness kicks in, and your breathing slows to a dangerous crawl. Left unchecked, it can spiral into unconsciousness, seizures, or respiratory failure.
Why Gabapentin Overdose Can Be Deadly
Here are some of the things your central nervous system is responsible for: breathing in, breathing out, steady heartbeat, and clear signals to your brain. Now, imagine those things being told to slow down. Then, add in another substance that slows them down even more.
With gabapentin overdose, reparatory failure is typically the cause of death. It’s an avalanche effect. Where one starts the process, and the others add more snow.
Gabapentin says, “Relax.”
Opioids say, “Slow down even more.”
Alcohol finishes, “Why breathe at all?”
Gabapentin Overdose Treatment and Prevention
Immediate danger:
If you think someone is experiencing an overdose, call 911 immediately. This is not something you want to take any chances with. If you believe opioids were also part of the equation, Naloxone could be an option and can potentially save a life. No matter what you do, even if you see improvement, it is crucial you call emergency services.
Treatment options:
Once medical professionals have handled the immediate danger, you will want to explore detoxification and addiction treatment options. If there is a polysubstance addiction or an addiction to a substance that is not Gabapentin, professionals with experience should be consulted for the proper treatment path. After detox, treatment will include modalities such as individual addiction counseling, group therapy, and relapse prevention alongside other educational options.
Call for Help With Addiction in Orange County
If you or a loved one is struggling with Gabapentin misuse or addiction (or addiction to any other substance), help is closer than you think. At Covenant Hills Treatment Center in Orange County, we specialize in evidence-based and faith-based treatment that addresses both substance use and underlying mental health and personal challenges.
Our experienced team is here to guide you through recovery with personalized treatment plans, medical detox, and holistic therapies designed to help you heal physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Take the first step today—call us at 800-662-2873.
Recovery starts with a single decision; we’re here to walk that journey with you.
