The Rise of Lyrica Abuse and Addiction
Lyrica is a relatively new drug that has only been on the market for a short time, but in 2013, it was ranked 19th out of all prescription drugs. This drug is earning more than $3 billion per year for Pfizer.
The dramatic rise in sales was largely due to the number of people who suffer from diabetes and fibromyalgia. Approximately 8% of the entire population of America suffer from diabetes, and out of these Americans, more than half of them also have nerve-related pain. This drug is a major help for individuals suffering with nerve-related pain.
An unfortunate circumstance that has arisen with this new drug is that it’s highly addictive. It now joins the long list of drugs causing problems in society.
What Is Lyrica?
Pregabalin, the active ingredient in Lyrica, is something of a mystery drug. Doctors originally prescribed the drug to fight epilepsy, but it was only partially successful and did not take off. Pregabalin has a calming effect on over-excited neurons.
The active ingredient in Lyrica works by slowing down the impulses within the brain and directly affects how the chemicals from the brain are sent through the nervous system.
Many individuals feel that Lyrica produces the same effects as Valium, but the two drugs aren’t related at all. Valium is prescribed to individuals who experience anxiety and produces feelings of mellowness. Since both drugs produce some type of euphoric effect, both are habit-forming. Both drugs are classified as Schedule V Controlled Substances, which means that they’re addictive.
When Do Doctors Prescribe Lyrica?
Doctors prescribe Lyrica to individuals who suffer from:
- Fibromyalgia
- Diabetes & pain due to issues with nerves
- Post-herpetic neuralgia
- An injury to the spinal cord
The drug comes in both gel tablet form and in the form of a solution. The typical dosage varies between 50 mg. three times a day and 75 mg. twice a day all the way up to 600 mg. in one day, depending on what it’s prescribed for.
Risks Associated With Taking Lyrica – The Potential for Lyrica Abuse
Risks associated with taking this drug include:
- Becoming dependent upon the drug and facing an addiction
- Unusual behaviors
- Suicidal thoughts
- Withdrawal from friends
- Hives
- Itching
- Blurred vision
Signs you are facing an addiction include:
- Going through withdrawal symptoms if you don’t take the drug
- Trying to stop taking the drug but failing
- Using the drug along with alcohol
- Choosing the drug over other programs to deal with chronic pain that don’t include drugs
If you’re suffering from Lyrica abuse, a professional drug detox center in Florida is the answer to overcoming your Lyrica addiction and beginning the path to recovery. A change of scenery from your current locale while attending addiction treatment programs is the best choice you can make when seeking detox and treatment for Lyrica abuse. Regain your health in the serene and peaceful setting of sunny Florida, complete with ocean breezes and palm trees.
Insurance can make addiction treatment affordable. Call Serenity House Detox & Recovery at 866-294-5306 now to verify your insurance.
