Lyrica, made by Pfizer, was a drug that was first introduced to treat epilepsy. This strong prescription medication had serious side effects, although it was seen as helpful for those suffering long-term seizures.
Soon after its release, Lyrica was being promoted for “off label” uses for depression and anxiety and as a treatment for pain. The drug manufacturer was encouraging doctors around the world to use this strong medication to treat patients suffering from pain, especially back pain. Mental health professionals were being encouraged to prescribe this medication, even though one of the main side effects was suicidal thoughts.
In 2009, a major lawsuit was taken against Pfizer for how it was promoting this and three other drugs. Pfizer settled the case with a penalty but admitted no wrongdoing.
Now, Lyrica is pushed by many doctors as a way to treat pain, anxiety, and depression for those not responding to other medications. What these doctors are not telling people, however, is the seriously addictive nature of this medication.
Lyrica Addiction
Once a person begins to use Lyrica, there is a change in their brain chemistry. While this is typical with medications, the changes caused by Lyrica are very similar to those experienced by opiate drug users. The brain starts functioning on a level where it can no longer work without the drug, and the need for more and more of the drug to get the same feeling happens quickly.
Many people experience unusual side effects when taking this drug, like falling asleep right in the middle of doing something, including standing in line or using the restroom. Some experience slurred speech; others become just too tired to function.
Sadly, some of the people using this prescription medication become suicidal or manic. It all depends on how the drug reacts with brain chemistry and the amount of the drug being used.
Many people have been involved in car accidents as a result of using this drug and not being able to focus while driving or falling asleep behind the wheel. Many people give up on things they love because they no longer have the energy to do anything.
The worst part of this prescription medication is that once you have become addicted, you will need to enter a rehab center for help to break the addiction.
Addiction Recovery Centers Can Treat Prescription Medication Addictions
Many people assume that drug rehab is reserved for those who are battling an addiction to illegal drugs or alcohol. An addiction recovery center can help anyone with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, including those prescribed by a doctor.
If you or your loved one has been suffering from an addiction to Lyrica, help is available. Entering a treatment facility and working with a substance abuse counselor can help anyone overcome a Lyrica addiction.
It may even surprise you to know that addictions to prescription medications are fairly high. Many of the prescriptions that are offered today, especially those to treat anxiety, depression, and ADHD, are highly addictive. These medications often require an intervention to stop use.
By entering an addiction recovery center, you can regain control of your life. You can stop the addiction to Lyrica or any other substance and address the issues that have led to the addiction. Most centers will look at dual diagnosis factors and create a treatment plan to help both conditions.
It will be a large relief when you complete the program to know that you can care for your medical conditions without having to compromise your life with an addiction.
Never Overlook The Potential For Addiction
When your doctor gives you prescription medication, you take it, assuming that it is safe for you. If you find that your behavior is changing in a bad way, that you feel lost or desperate without the medication, or that you are taking more than required to get the same effect, you may have an addiction.
Speak with your medical care provider or contact a substance abuse center about this issue. The sooner you address the addiction, the sooner you can enter into recovery and free yourself from the control this drug has on your life. There are always other options for managing your health issues than addictive prescription medication.
