Getting High Taking Lyrica
Getting a Lyrica high is done primarily by young people. Pregabalin, the main ingredient in this drug, produces psychoactive effects comparable to the euphoric and sedative effects. It affects the central nervous system as a suppressant. However, these effects tend to diminish over time unless the user starts taking more Lyrica than prescribed.
Combining Lyrica with antidepressants, antihistamines, anti-anxiety medications, narcotic pain medications, and alcohol is known to enhance the psychoactive effects of Lyrica, thus resulting in a Lyrica High.
- Although research on Lyrica abuse and addiction is scant, some studies suggest that people with a history of opioid addiction or alcoholism may be vulnerable to abusing Lyrica.
Lyrica has been designated a Schedule V medication by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency. Drugs considered to have a lower potential for abuse and addiction are under Schedule 5.
No reports of Lyrica overdose events have to be substantiated.
- Overdosing may occur if someone takes Lyrica with other drugs, especially pain pills and alcohol.
- Lyrica is a CNS Depressant
Lyrica, aka pregabalin, treats various painful nerve conditions such as fibromyalgia, migraines, diabetic neuropathy, shingles, anxiety disorders, and partial-onset epileptic seizures in adults (who are already taking drugs for seizures). Lyrica is a central nervous system depressant. An anticonvulsant does not bind to receptors providing pain, attack, and anxiety relief. Instead, Lyrica increases GABA transporter proteins and extracellular GABA by producing more L-glutamic acid decarboxylase, an enzyme implicated in schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and neuropathic pain.
Sleepiness and dizziness are the two most reported side effects of taking Lyrica. In clinical studies comparing placebo with Lyrica, 30 percent of Lyrica subjects suffered dizziness and sleepiness, while only eight percent of placebo patients reported similar effects. Other side effects of taking Lyrica said in clinical studies include:
- dry mouth
- blurry vision
- difficulty concentrating
- feeling high
- swelling of hands and feet
- weight gain
Rare but possible are allergic reactions that may occur when taking Lyrica. Allergic reaction symptoms can include:
- swelling of the lips, face, tongue, and throat
- hives
- trouble breathing
Any of these symptoms are indicative of a severe allergic reaction requiring immediate medical treatment.
Like other anti-seizure, anti-epileptic drugs, Lyrica risks causing suicidal ideation or actions in a small number of people. In addition, Lyrica may worsen existing depression, panic disorders, and anxiety to the point that a Lyrica user may contemplate suicide. Other severe reactions to Lyrica include acting aggressively or violently, mania (nonstop talking or activity), extreme mood changes, and dangerous impulsivity.