Gabapentin is often prescribed for nerve pain, seizures, and other neurological conditions, helping many manage symptoms that interfere with daily life. However, over 73 million prescriptions were filled in 2024, with misuse rates reaching 15–22% among opioid abusers and 40–65% among those with prescriptions. Problems tend to start when taken in higher doses, longer than intended, or combined with other substances.
While not classified as a narcotic, misuse leads to dependence, withdrawal symptoms, and serious health risks. Between 2019–2020, gabapentin appeared in approximately 10% of over 62,000 overdose deaths, with 85–90% involving opioids. At our treatment center, we see gabapentin misuse most often in people originally prescribed it legitimately. This article explains how it works, why abuse happens, and when professional help becomes important.
