Medical Providers:
Dr. Michael Vines, MD
Alex Spritzer, FNP, CARN-AP, PMHNP
Clinical Providers:
Natalie Foster, LPC-S, MS
Last Updated: September 26, 2025
Gabapentin, often recognized by the brand name Neurontin, is a prescription medication commonly used to manage nerve pain and prevent seizures. While it’s FDA-approved and effective for legitimate medical purposes, gabapentin can also be misused, leading to dependence or addiction.
In this guide, we’ll explore how gabapentin works, its medical uses, the risks of gabapentin addiction, and why seeking proper addiction treatment is essential for recovery.
Gabapentin, also known as Neurontin, was initially developed to help control seizures in people with epilepsy. Over time, it has become widely used for other conditions, including nerve pain, restless legs syndrome, and some forms of anxiety, thanks to its versatility and effectiveness.
Gabapentin is often used as an add-on treatment for epilepsy, helping to manage seizures that aren’t fully controlled by other medications.
Gabapentin is also effective at easing nerve pain, including discomfort from conditions like shingles (postherpetic neuralgia) and diabetic neuropathy.
Gabapentin can help relieve symptoms of restless legs syndrome (RLS), a condition marked by uncomfortable sensations and a strong, uncontrollable urge to move the legs.
While gabapentin isn’t FDA-approved for anxiety, some healthcare providers prescribe it off-label to help manage anxiety symptoms, especially for patients who haven’t found relief with other treatments.
Gabapentin is commonly available as oral capsules, tablets, and liquid solutions. Typical doses for managing nerve pain or controlling seizures usually start around 300 mg, but the exact amount varies based on a patient’s needs and how they respond to the medication.
Gabapentin works by influencing how nerves communicate with the brain. It binds to certain calcium channels on nerve cells, which decreases the release of neurotransmitters that send pain signals and trigger seizures. By stabilizing nerve activity and calming abnormal electrical impulses, gabapentin can help control seizures and ease pain.
Research and clinical experience indicate that gabapentin may help some people with anxiety disorders. It’s believed to influence neurotransmitter systems that regulate mood and anxiety, offering relief for certain patients.
However, healthcare providers need to monitor its use carefully, as taking gabapentin for anxiety carries a risk of dependence and other potential side effects.
Even though gabapentin offers important medical benefits, it can be misused and lead to addiction. The risk is higher for individuals who take it in ways other than prescribed or at doses above the recommended amount.
Gabapentin addiction can occur when people use the drug to experience euphoria or to self-manage mental health challenges. Its impact on the brain’s reward system can create dependence over time, and stopping the medication may trigger withdrawal symptoms.
Gabapentin isn’t classified as a controlled substance or narcotic, but its potential for misuse and addiction has prompted some experts to recommend stricter regulations. While it doesn’t fall under narcotics, gabapentin can still affect mood and perception, sometimes contributing to the development of substance use disorders.
Unlike opioids, which directly affect the brain’s opioid receptors, gabapentin works through different pathways. However, it can still lead to psychological dependence in some people. Misusing gabapentin may result in serious consequences, including:
Suddenly stopping gabapentin can trigger withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, restlessness, and insomnia. To reduce these effects, it’s important to taper off the medication gradually under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Taking high doses of gabapentin or misusing the drug can sometimes cause breathing problems, especially when combined with other medications that depress the central nervous system.
Misusing gabapentin can impair coordination, raising the likelihood of accidents and injuries.
Abusing gabapentin can worsen existing mental health conditions, causing mood swings, confusion, and difficulties with thinking or memory.
Taking excessive amounts of gabapentin can result in overdose symptoms, including extreme drowsiness, dizziness, and in severe cases, coma.
Long-term misuse of gabapentin can lead to both physical and psychological dependence, making recovery more challenging and raising the risk of relapse.
Some individuals may take higher doses of gabapentin than prescribed to intensify effects, like increased sedation or feelings of euphoria.
Gabapentin is sometimes used recreationally for its sedative effects, especially when taken alongside other substances.
Mixing gabapentin with alcohol or other drugs can intensify its effects, but it also carries serious dangers. Combining substances may cause severe sedation, respiratory depression, or other harmful consequences.
Gabapentin can be an effective medication for a variety of conditions, but it carries risks when misused. While it’s not considered highly addictive, dependence can develop, particularly with higher doses or improper use. Recognizing the signs of gabapentin dependence and understanding its risks and treatment options are key to managing and preventing addiction.
If you or a loved one is struggling with gabapentin addiction, getting professional support is essential. Arizona IOP, a trusted addiction treatment center in Scottsdale, Arizona, provides personalized outpatient programs tailored to each individual’s needs. Contact our team today to learn about recovery options and take the first step toward regaining control of your life.
