Living with chronic pain and nerve disorders can be draining and challenging. People struggling with debilitating conditions like fibromyalgia, epilepsy, and anxiety disorders receive several different types of treatment from their doctors. Many of the medications physicians use to treat these conditions target different areas of the body. Lyrica is a popular option for doctors looking to relieve their patients’ symptoms of debilitating disorders. Patients who take any medication are prone to abuse their prescriptions and fall into the cycle of addiction. Drug addiction treatment programs can help to break this cycle and begin the road to recovery.
If you or a loved one struggles with substance abuse or addiction, it’s time to regain independence from substances. The Arbor knows how important it is to have an upscale environment with a professional team to help you take the first steps on the road to successful, long-term recovery. Call 844.413.2690 today to develop your plan for sobriety.
What Is Lyrica?
Lyrica is a medication that providers commonly use to treat nerve pain and fibromyalgia. It can also help to treat anxiety disorders, seizures, and restless leg syndrome. Lyrica works by affecting the way that nerves in the brain send signals. This action can help to relieve pain caused by conditions like fibromyalgia and diabetic neuropathy.
Lyrica is part of a class of drugs called anticonvulsants. Other medications in this class include gabapentin and pregabalin. Experts believe these drugs reduce the number of pain signals that damaged nerves send out. Lyrica is available in capsule and tablet form and is usually taken two to three times a day.
What Are the Risks of Taking Lyrica?
Like all medications, there are some risks associated with taking Lyrica. These risks include:
- Drowsiness
- Weight gain
- Dizziness
- Problems with vision
- Swollen hands or feet
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
It’s important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking Lyrica before starting the medication.
Is Lyrica Addictive?
Lyrica is not a narcotic or an opioid, but it can still be habit-forming. People who abuse Lyrica may do so because they enjoy how it makes them feel. Some people may also abuse Lyrica to self-medicate their anxiety or pain.
When taken as prescribed by a doctor, Lyrica is safe. However, taking Lyrica in higher doses than prescribed or for non-medical reasons can be dangerous. Lyrica abuse can lead to addiction, overdose, and death.
Signs of Lyrica Addiction
People who abuse Lyrica may not think they are addicted to the drug. However, there are some signs that can indicate a Lyrica addiction, including:
- Taking more Lyrica than prescribed
- Crushing and snorting pills
- Mixing Lyrica with other substances, like alcohol
- Stealing or forging prescriptions
- Isolation from friends and family
- Problems at work or school
- Financial problems
- Engaging in risky behaviors
If you or a loved one is showing signs of a Lyrica addiction, it’s important to seek help as soon as possible. Lyrica abuse can lead to addiction, overdose, and death. Drug addiction treatment programs can help individuals struggling with Lyrica addiction get sober.
Lyrica Addiction Help at The Arbor
The Arbor is an upscale drug and alcohol treatment center that offers a variety of programs to help people struggling with addiction. We provide evidence-based treatment methods, like cognitive-behavioral therapy and 12-step programming, in a luxurious setting. Our goal is to help our clients develop the skills they need to live sober, productive lives.
If you or a loved one is struggling with Lyrica addiction, we can help. Call us today at 844.413.2690 to learn more about our program and how we can help you get sober.