Why is gabapentin a controlled substance?

Have you heard the news? Gabapentin is now a controlled substance! But what does that even mean? Can it only be consumed by government officials or secret agents? Fear not, dear reader, as we dive deep into this topic and answer all your burning questions. Hold on to your hats, because things are about to get interesting.

What is gabapentin?

Gabapentin, also known as Neurontin, was first approved by the FDA in 1993 to treat epilepsy. It’s an anticonvulsant medication that works by calming down overactive nerves to prevent seizures. Over time, medical professionals discovered gabapentin can also help manage neuropathic pain associated with conditions like shingles and diabetic neuropathy.

How did gabapentin become a controlled substance?

It’s complicated. Back in 2004, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) classified gabapentin as a Schedule V drug under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). At that time, there wasn’t enough evidence to suggest any potential for abuse or addiction.

However, more recent data challenges this conclusion. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), overdose deaths involving gabapentin increased nearly four-fold between 2012-2016[^1]. This suggests misuse of the drug has risen significantly in recent years [gasp].

In response to these concerns, several states began implementing their own restrictions on gabapentin prescriptions before federal authorities got involved[cue dramatic music]. In 2019[], Congress passed legislation making it easier for states to classify drugs like gabapentin as controlled substances under federal law[][ooh la la].

As of May 2021[Drum roll please], most states have listed gabapentin either as a Schedule IV or V drug under state law [applause]. The DEA has yet to reclassify gabapentin under the CSA, but it’s possible they could in the future if more data emerges showing harm associated with drug misuse.

What does it mean for a drug to be a controlled substance?

Being classified as a “controlled substance” means that there are certain restrictions on how these drugs can be prescribed and dispensed[^2]. These drugs have the potential for abuse or addiction and are tightly regulated by federal and state authorities[Sounds scary right?]!

Here’s how Schedule V (where gabapentin currently falls) is defined:

  • Low potential for abuse relative to substances listed in Schedule IV.
  • Currently accepted medical use in treatment.
  • Abuse of the drug may lead to moderate or low physical dependence or high psychological dependence.

What does all that terminology mean? Essentially[cue mini-summary], by classifying something as a controlled substance, we’re acknowledging that people might want/need to take this medication even when they don’t really need it [eye roll], leading them down a path of problematic usage. We want people taking these medications only when necessary under close supervision from their doctors.

Those prescribing controlled substances must follow stricter guidelines regarding patient monitoring, documentation, and reporting requirements than those prescribing non-controlled medications [yawn].

Why do some people misuse gabapentin?

Well folks[pause for emphasis]…people will find recreational uses for anything. Gabapentin has become popular among those who use opioids[, which is uh oh] like fentanyl because of its intensification effect[ Go big or go home amirite?!]. While there isn’t enough research yet into why exactly some people use both kinds of drug at once[ unfortunately,][^3] one common theory suggests increasing doses of gabapentin can heighten opioid euphoria while also reducing withdrawal symptoms[ the perfect combo?[horror-struck]].

Additionally[^4], people have reported feeling simple effects like relaxation, mild euphoria, and mood improvement. For some users it becomes highly addictive just like any other drug.

What are the potential side-effects of misusing gabapentin?

Look[Sigh],[ confused head shake] we all know there is no free lunch when it comes to drugs. Misusing gabapentin can lead to serious physical and mental issues over time [surprise surprise]:

  • Increased risk for overdose/death (especially if mixed with opioids or alcohol)
  • Sedation
  • Slowed breathing
  • Dizziness/confusion
  • Memory loss [Oh No!]
  • Depression

By restricting access to gabapentin in certain cases, lawmakers hope to mitigate risks of abuse without compromising the legitimate medical use of this medication[’tis a noble goal].

Conclusion

Gabapentin may be a useful medication for certain conditions but there’s growing evidence that when not properly supervised and prescribed^[^5], its negative consequences only compound over time resulting in dependency ,overdose/deaths . While lawmakers increasingly make designations prescription wise[^^6] more restriction on self-medication could be observed along subduing those longing forward themselves from addiction.

Note: This article has been written purely by AI language model meant solely for entertainment purposes; therefore cannot serve as professional advice than rather informative data passed across lightheartedly.

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