Pregabalin Addiction
You're not alone
If pregabalin has become difficult to manage, whether it was originally prescribed or obtained elsewhere, there are ways to get support. Physical dependence can occur during prescribed treatment and does not, on its own, mean someone has an addiction. [1, 2]
This page explains how problems with pregabalin use can develop, what withdrawal may involve and the treatment options available. If you take pregabalin regularly, do not stop or reduce it without advice from your prescriber. [1, 3]
What is Pregabalin Addiction?
Pregabalin is a prescription gabapentinoid used in the UK for neuropathic pain, epilepsy and generalised anxiety disorder. It may also be known by the brand name Lyrica. It affects the way nerve signals are transmitted and can cause dizziness or sleepiness. [2, 4]
Physical dependence means the body has adapted to a medicine, so withdrawal symptoms may appear when it is reduced or stopped. Addiction is different: it involves difficulty controlling use, often despite harm. A person taking pregabalin exactly as prescribed can be physically dependent without having an addiction. [1, 2]
Some people begin taking more than prescribed, seek extra supplies or use pregabalin for effects other than treating their medical condition. A professional assessment can establish whether the concern is prescribed-medicine dependence, problematic use, addiction or a combination of these. [1]
Recognising the Signs
There is no single sign that confirms pregabalin addiction. What matters is the overall pattern, its effect on daily life and whether the person can control their use. [1]
Behavioural Signs
- Taking more pregabalin than prescribed or more frequently than intended.
- Running out early, seeking additional supplies or obtaining tablets from several sources.
- Finding it difficult to cut down despite wanting to.
- Withdrawing from friends or family
- Using pregabalin for effects unrelated to the condition for which it was prescribed.
Physical Signs
- Drowsiness, dizziness or problems with balance and concentration. [4]
- Withdrawal symptoms after missed doses or reductions, such as anxiety, sweating, insomnia or nausea. [2, 3]
- Needing clinical review because the medicine is no longer providing sufficient benefit or is causing adverse effects. [1]
Important: Withdrawal symptoms or tolerance alone do not prove addiction. Speak to the prescribing clinician rather than changing the dose independently. [1]
What Causes Pregabalin Addiction?
There is no single cause. Problems may develop through a combination of medication exposure, patterns of use, psychological needs and personal circumstances. An assessment should avoid assumptions and consider the reason pregabalin was first prescribed. [1]
Brain Chemistry
Pregabalin changes signalling in the nervous system. With ongoing use, some people develop physical dependence and experience symptoms when their dose is reduced. This is not the same as a diagnosis of addiction. [1, 2]
Genetics & Environment
A person’s history of substance use, access to medication and social circumstances can influence the support they need. NICE advises clinicians to consider individual circumstances and factors associated with withdrawal difficulties, rather than applying a standard approach to everyone. [1]
Mental Health
Pregabalin may be prescribed for generalised anxiety disorder. If anxiety returns during a reduction, it can be difficult to distinguish withdrawal from the original condition. Treatment planning should consider both possibilities and ensure appropriate ongoing care. [1, 4]
The Impact on Your Health
Pregabalin can be helpful when prescribed appropriately, but adverse effects and unsafe combinations can cause harm. The risks should be discussed without assuming that every person taking pregabalin will experience them. [2, 4]
Physical Health Risks
- Dizziness, drowsiness and impaired coordination can increase the likelihood of falls or accidents. [4]
- Taking pregabalin with opioids or other sedating substances increases the risk of serious sedation and breathing problems. [5]
- Stopping pregabalin abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms, including seizures in some cases. People taking pregabalin for epilepsy may also have seizures if treatment is stopped suddenly. [3, 6]
- People with impaired kidney function may need their prescription reviewed because pregabalin is cleared through the kidneys. [6]
Mental Health Risks
- Anxiety, agitation, panic, insomnia and low mood can occur during withdrawal. [2, 3]
- The return of an underlying anxiety condition may resemble withdrawal and should be assessed rather than assumed. [1]
- If someone develops thoughts of suicide or is at immediate risk of harm, urgent help is needed. [4]
Important: If someone has a seizure, collapses, cannot be woken or has severe breathing difficulties, call 999. For urgent concerns without immediate danger, contact NHS 111. [3, 4]
Recovery is possible. Safe care begins with understanding the person’s medicine use, health and goals. A gradual reduction may be appropriate, and addiction treatment may include psychological support. [1]
Your Path to Recovery
Treatment should be based on an individual assessment. Not everyone with pregabalin dependence needs residential rehabilitation, and not everyone with addiction needs the same approach. [1]
Medical Detox
Pregabalin withdrawal is usually managed by a prescriber-led dose reduction, not by abruptly stopping the medicine. NICE recommends reducing gabapentinoids by a fixed amount at each step, tailored to the individual, with reviews and adjustments according to symptoms. The safest setting depends on clinical assessment. [1]
Assessment should include the current dose, duration of use, the original indication, epilepsy or seizure history, kidney function, other medicines and any alcohol or drug use. The prescribing clinician should oversee changes. If someone has epilepsy, their epilepsy treatment plan needs particular attention. [1, 3, 6]
Residential Treatment
Where problematic pregabalin use is affecting daily life, residential rehabilitation may offer a structured setting for therapy, practical support and recovery planning. Step by Step Recovery provides residential addiction treatment at The Lighthouse in Essex. Admission depends on whether the service can safely meet the person’s medical and support needs.
Residential rehabilitation does not replace an appropriate prescriber-led reduction plan. Some people will be better supported by their GP, specialist prescribing service or another healthcare setting. [1]
Ongoing Support
Recovery planning can include understanding triggers, building coping strategies, managing the original condition for which pregabalin was prescribed and maintaining support after treatment. NICE recommends continuing to address underlying health conditions during withdrawal. [1]
Step by Step Recovery can discuss its available aftercare and outpatient options during assessment. Eligibility and arrangements should be confirmed directly with the team.
Important: Do not stop prescribed pregabalin suddenly. Speak to your GP or prescriber about any change, even if you feel well. [3]
Common Questions
FAQs
Here are some common questions based on the information already covered on this page. If you would rather speak to someone privately, our team is available to help.
Can I become addicted to pregabalin if it was prescribed?
Yes, problems with control over use can develop, but prescribed use may also cause physical dependence without addiction. A clinician can help distinguish the two. [1, 2]
Can I stop pregabalin suddenly?
Do not stop it abruptly without medical advice. Withdrawal symptoms may be severe, and sudden stopping is particularly concerning for people taking pregabalin for epilepsy. [3]
How long does pregabalin withdrawal take?
There is no reliable timetable that applies to everyone. Symptoms may change over time, and dose reduction can take longer if symptoms are difficult. The prescriber should review and adapt the plan. [1]
Is pregabalin withdrawal dangerous?
Yes. Sudden stopping may cause significant withdrawal symptoms and seizures, particularly in people with epilepsy. Seek urgent medical assessment for severe symptoms. [3, 6]
Can I drink alcohol while taking pregabalin?
Alcohol may increase sedation and dizziness. Pregabalin is particularly risky when combined with opioids or other medicines that depress breathing. Ask your prescriber for advice about your circumstances. [4, 5]
Do I need residential rehabilitation?
Not necessarily. Some people can reduce pregabalin with support from their prescriber or a community service. Residential treatment may be considered where addiction and wider recovery needs make structured support appropriate. [1]
How much does treatment cost?
Costs depend on the treatment recommended after assessment and the length of stay. Contact the admissions team for current options and a personalised quote.
Other Addictions We Treat
Pregabalin is a prescription medicine. Step By Step Recovery also provides information and treatment support for other substance addictions.
Prescription Drug Addiction
Support for difficulties involving prescription medicines, including benzodiazepines and opioid painkillers. Withdrawal plans should be specific to each medicine. [1]
Alcohol Addiction
Alcohol dependence may require its own withdrawal assessment and treatment. Tell the clinician about alcohol use before making changes to pregabalin. [1]
Cocaine Addiction
Some people use more than one substance. A full assessment helps identify risks and plan support for each pattern of use. [1]
Learn more about cocaine addiction, its effects and available treatment support.
Three specialised Clinics
Drug and Alcohol Treatment in Essex, London and Birmingham
Step By Step Recovery operates three specialist clinics providing residential detox and rehabilitation in Essex and outpatient treatment in London and Birmingham. Wherever you are in the country, help is closer than you think.
RESIDENTIAL
Essex Clinic
- Residential treatment at The Lighthouse
- 1A Southchurch Avenue, Southend-On-Sea, SS3 9BA
- 01702 296 006
outpatient
London Clinic
- Outpatient assessment and treatment options.
- Finsgate House, 5 Cranwood Street, London, EC1V 9EE
- 0207 118 9400
outpatient
Birmingham Clinic
- Outpatient assessment and treatment options.
- Suite 201c Bradford Court Business Centre, 123 – 131 Bradford Street, Birmingham, B12 0NS
- 01702 296 006
Start Your Recovery Journey Safely
If you are worried about your pregabalin use, our team can discuss your circumstances and explain the next steps. If you currently take pregabalin on prescription, continue to follow your prescriber’s instructions while seeking advice. [3]
Your enquiry is completely confidential. We’re here to help, not to judge.
Medical sources and evidence notes
[1] NICE NG215: Medicines associated with dependence or withdrawal symptoms, recommendations. https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng215/chapter/Recommendations
[2] NHS: Common questions about pregabalin. https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/pregabalin/common-questions-about-pregabalin/
[3] NHS: How and when to take pregabalin. https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/pregabalin/how-and-when-to-take-pregabalin/
[4] NHS: About pregabalin and side effects. https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/pregabalin/about-pregabalin/
[5] MHRA: Pregabalin and risk of severe respiratory depression. https://www.gov.uk/drug-safety-update/pregabalin-lyrica-reports-of-severe-respiratory-depression
[6] Electronic Medicines Compendium: Lyrica summary of product characteristics, renal impairment and withdrawal. https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/5539/smpc