A Hidden Pandemic? Abuse of Gabapentinoids: A Brief Review of Recent Studies
Current Drug Research Reviews, cilt.17, sa.1, ss.5-9, 2025 (Scopus)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Derleme
- Cilt numarası: 17 Sayı: 1
- Basım Tarihi: 2025
- Doi Numarası: 10.2174/0125899775268780231002064605
- Dergi Adı: Current Drug Research Reviews
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Scopus
- Sayfa Sayıları: ss.5-9
- Anahtar Kelimeler: gabapentin, gabapentinoid, opioid epidemic, Pregabalin, prescription drug misuse, prescription drug use disorder
- Açık Arşiv Koleksiyonu: AVESİS Açık Erişim Koleksiyonu
- Sağlık Bilimleri Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
Background: Gabapentin and pregabalin were developed for epilepsy and neuropathic pain. They work via voltage-gated calcium channels and are used for broad-spectrum diagnoses, e.g., epilepsy, neuropathic pain, other chronic pain syndromes, anxiety disorders, alcohol-drug withdrawal syndromes, agitation, insomnia, etc. Especially in a world dealing with the opioid crisis, gabapentinoids were considered safer alternatives to opioid analgesics. Methods: This review aims to comprehensively search and summarize recent studies concerning the abuse of gabapentinoids published between 2021 and 2022 from various regions around the world. Results: Studies have highlighted that a history of substance use disorder is a significant risk factor for gabapentinoid abuse. Concurrent abuse of gabapentinoids with illicit drugs can exacerbate drug-related damages. Drug screening and postmortem toxicology tests have revealed an increase in gabapentinoid consumption. In response to the abuse potential, several countries have classified gabapentinoids as controlled substances. Conclusion: Gabapentinoids are highly abused molecules worldwide. Physicians should be aware of their abuse potential.