Dangers of Snorting Gabapentin, Drug Abuse, and Treatment

Can You Snort Gabapentin?

Generally, an oral capsule, oral solution, or oral tablet with immediate release is indicated for gabapentin. Nonetheless, those who begin abusing the medication frequently inhale powdered gabapentin down their nasal passages.

One case study described individuals snorting gabapentin from capsules and experiencing a high similar to that felt after snorting cocaine. Another commonly reported sensation from gabapentin misuse was sedation/relaxation/calmness. [1]

What Happens If You Snort Gabapentin?

For some drugs, snorting gabapentin is the preferred method for misuse. But the short- and long-term effects can lead to significant damage. The physical harm of gabapentin effects manifests in several ways. Signs to look for include:

• Runny nose.
• Frequent cold/allergy signs.
• Chronic sinus/nasal problems.
• Nosebleeds.
• Sores on mouth or nose.
• Problems swallowing and breathing.

Someone snorting gabapentin may possess paraphernalia, such as razor blades, tiny spoons, straws, and small mirrors.

The effects of gabapentin, which include euphoria, tranquility, and greater sociability, are experienced by large-scale snorting of the substance. As a result of consumers chasing after this high over time, the users can develop a physical and psychological dependence that leads to addiction.

Why Do People Snort Gabapentin?

Prevalence of gabapentin misuse in the general population was reported to be 1%, 40-65% among individuals with prescriptions, and between 15 and 22% within populations of people who abuse opioids. An array of subjective experiences resembling opioids, benzodiazepines, and psychedelics were reported over various doses, including those within clinical recommendations. [2]

Gabapentin was primarily misused for recreational purposes, self-medication, or intentional self-harm and is often misused alone or in combination with other substances, especially opioids, benzodiazepines, and alcohol. Individuals with histories of drug abuse were most often involved in its misuse.

Learn More:

• Prescription Drug Abuse, Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Other gabapentin addiction effects include:

• Improved sociability.
• Marijuana-like “high,” cocaine-like “high,” “amphetamine rush.”
• Disassociation.
• MDMA-like “high.”
• Increased energy and focus.
• Improved quality of sleep.
• Becoming more talkative.

Abusing gabapentin, including snorting it, can increase the risk of these adverse effects. This is also true if a person mixes gabapentin with other drugs like alcohol or opioids.

The most common side effects of gabapentin abuse include:

• Suicidal behavior and ideation.
• Drowsiness.
• Difficulty with coordination.
• Respiratory depression.
• Withdrawal symptoms, including seizures.
• Difficulty breathing.
• Swelling of the lips, throat, and tongue.
• Central nervous system depression (sedation).
• Dizziness.
• Tumorigenic potential (may form tumors).
• Sudden death in patients with epilepsy.

Is Gabapentin Addictive?

After heavy or extended use of gabapentin, your system can develop dependency and would need more of the drug to function and avoid a possible dangerous withdrawal. Fortunately, getting medically assisted gabapentin detox can help you slowly wean off gabapentin while under medical care.

Gabapentin Addiction

Gabapentin was misused primarily for recreational purposes, self-medication, or intentional self-harm and was misused alone or in combination with other substances, especially opioids, benzodiazepines, and alcohol. Individuals with histories of drug abuse were most often involved in its misuse.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, epidemiological and case report evidence suggests that the anti-epileptic and analgesic medication gabapentin is being misused internationally, with substance abuse populations at particular risk for misuse/abuse. [3]

Gabapentin Overdose Warnings

A gabapentin overdose is shocking to many because, since its creation in the 1980s, gabapentin has been widely believed to be relatively harmless with no danger of misuse. This anti-seizure medication has begun to draw national attention as alarming trends show rising abuse and directly related fatalities.

We Level Up Texas Gabapentin Drug Rehab

Get back on track with We Level Up Texas inpatient rehab center for gabapentin addiction. Our expert team and medical professionals are ready to guide you through a personalized recovery plan at our top-notch Texas facility. We combine proven methods with compassion and a science-based approach to help you break off gabapentin’s hold.

Reach out to We Level Up Texas Treatment Center today if you or someone you know is addicted to gabapentin or any other substance for additional information on how to get support.

Programs offered at We Level Up Texas inpatient rehab for gabapentin addiction include:

• Detoxification Services.
• Dual Diagnosis Treatment.
• Individual Counseling.
• Group Therapy.
• Medical Supervision.
• Educational Workshops.
• Holistic and Evidence-Based Therapies.
• Aftercare Planning.

Are you seeking gabapentin drug rehab centers? Get a free rehab insurance check without any obligation. The result can help you explore several treatment options.