Gabapentin Overdose, Gabapentin Abuse and Gabapentin Overdose Treatment

A lethal dose of gabapentin was not identified in mice and rats receiving single oral doses as high as 8000 mg/kg. Signs of acute toxicity in animals included ataxia, labored breathing, ptosis, sedation, hypoactivity, or excitation.

Acute oral overdoses of NEURONTIN up to 49 grams have been reported. In these cases, double vision, slurred speech, drowsiness, lethargy, and diarrhea were observed. All patients recovered with supportive care. Coma, resolving with dialysis, has been reported in patients with chronic renal failure who were treated with NEURONTIN.

Gabapentin can be removed by hemodialysis. Although hemodialysis has not been performed in the few overdose cases reported, it may be indicated by the patient’s clinical state or in patients with significant renal impairment.

If overexposure occurs, call your poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.

Effects of Gabapentin Misuse and Abuse

Used as prescribed and not mixed with other dangerous substances, the medication is safe. However, a person abusing the drug is generally taking much more than the prescribed dose.

The effects of a gabapentin high range from an elevated mood or euphoria to a sense of calm, relaxation and improved sociability.

While the effects of misusing gabapentin sound harmless, the problem is that mixed with other substances, such as alcohol or opioids – heroin,  fentanyl,  prescription painkillers – it increases the potency or lethality of the other substances.

Many people have started misusing it to get high or increase the effects of other substances and it has become a favorite of opioid users to enhance the effects. Because it is not a controlled substance, it is fairly easy to find on the streets.

Refill too soon is absolutely not allowed in our pharms.

Gabapentin overdose can occur when someone takes more than the prescribed dose or accidentally ingests too much of the medication. Symptoms of gabapentin overdose can vary depending on the amount ingested and individual factors, but they may include:

1. Drowsiness: Excessive sleepiness or difficulty staying awake beyond the normal side effects of the medication.
2. Dizziness: Severe vertigo or feeling lightheaded to the point of being unable to stand or walk properly.
3. Weakness: Profound weakness or extreme fatigue.
4. Slurred Speech: Difficulty forming words or speaking clearly.
5. Confusion: Mental confusion or disorientation.
6. Loss of Coordination: Impaired motor coordination, leading to stumbling, clumsiness, or difficulty performing tasks that require precise movements.
7. Tremors: Involuntary shaking or trembling of the limbs or other parts of the body.
8. Nausea and Vomiting: Persistent nausea and vomiting, which may be severe in some cases.
9. Respiratory Depression: Slow or shallow breathing, which can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly.
10. Seizures: In severe cases, gabapentin overdose can trigger seizures or convulsions, particularly if the individual has a history of epilepsy or seizure disorders.
11. Coma: Loss of consciousness or a state of deep unconsciousness where the individual cannot be awakened.

Gabapentin Overdose Treatment

If you suspect a gabapentin overdose or observe any of these symptoms in yourself or someone else, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Here’s what to do:

1. Call Emergency Services: Dial emergency services (911 in the United States) or your local emergency number immediately for assistance.
2. Provide Information: Be prepared to provide information about the suspected overdose, including the amount of gabapentin ingested (if known), any other medications or substances taken, and the person’s symptoms and medical history.
3. Do Not Delay Treatment: Gabapentin overdose can be serious and requires prompt medical intervention. Do not wait for symptoms to worsen before seeking help.
4. Treatment: Treatment for gabapentin overdose may involve supportive care to manage symptoms and stabilize the person’s condition. This may include intravenous fluids, monitoring of vital signs, and measures to prevent aspiration if the person is unconscious.
5. Activated Charcoal: In some cases, activated charcoal may be administered to help absorb the medication and prevent further absorption into the bloodstream.
6. Medical Observation: The person may need to be monitored in a hospital setting for a period of time to ensure their condition stabilizes and to watch for any complications.