Lyrica Addiction Definition, Signs and Symptoms, Effects, and Treatment

Lyrica addiction develops when the drug is misused or taken over extended periods, creating a dependency characterized by compulsive use despite adverse consequences. Lyrica, also known by its generic name pregabalin, is a medication primarily prescribed for managing nerve pain and fibromyalgia and as an adjunct treatment for certain types of seizures. It is part of the gabapentinoid class and acts by calming overactive nerve signals in the brain, offering relief for conditions resistant to other therapies. Its calming properties on the nervous system, however, have also led to its misuse.

While Lyrica is not as addictive as benzodiazepines or opioids, its potential to produce feelings of relaxation and mild euphoria makes it a target for abuse, particularly in individuals with a history of substance misuse. In the United States, over 64 million prescriptions of Lyrica were dispensed in 2016, according to a study by Goodman, C.W., & Brett, A.S. et al. 2017, titled “Gabapentin and Pregabalin for Pain-Is Increased Prescribing a Cause for Concern?”

The primary signs and symptoms of Lyrica addiction include physical indicators like drowsiness and dizziness, psychological symptoms such as cravings and mood swings, and behavioral patterns like drug-seeking behavior. These symptoms reflect the drug’s influence on the brain’s reward system, leading to dependence with prolonged or excessive use.

The effects of Lyrica addiction range from short-term impacts, such as reduced coordination and impaired judgment, to long-term risks, like cognitive decline and potential organ damage. The psychological toll includes depression and anxiety, which compound over time, affecting an individual’s quality of life and functionality.

Withdrawal symptoms from Lyrica, which occur even with prescribed use if stopped abruptly, include anxiety, insomnia, nausea, and severe rebound pain. These symptoms make unsupervised withdrawal challenging and highlight the need for medical support during the discontinuation process.

Treatment options for Lyrica addiction are varied and effective, including medical detoxification to manage withdrawal symptoms, behavioral therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to address underlying addiction behaviors, and holistic approaches like group therapy and mindfulness practices. A combination of these strategies ensures a comprehensive recovery, with medical detox and behavioral therapies serving as the cornerstone of effective treatment plans. Based on research from the CDC, 3 out of 4 people (75%) recover from addiction.

What is Lyrica Addiction?  

Lyrica addiction is the compulsive use of pregabalin, a medication primarily prescribed for neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia, and anxiety disorders. While Lyrica (pregabalin), an anticonvulsant, is a useful and effective drug for managing these conditions, it leads to addiction when taken improperly or abused. 

Pregabalin has sedative and euphoric effects, which make it prone to misuse, particularly in those seeking its calming effects or those who have a history of substance abuse. The addictive properties of Lyrica arise from its impact on the brain’s neurotransmitter systems, particularly the GABA receptors, which contribute to its calming and anti-anxiety effects. Prolonged misuse of Lyrica alters brain chemistry, leading to physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms when use is stopped abruptly.

Lyrica addiction is concerning due to its potential for abuse and the risk of overdose, particularly when combined with other depressant substances like alcohol or opioids. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), prescription drug misuse, including drugs like pregabalin, has been rising in recent years. Although reports on Lyrica abuse in the U.S. remain limited, a recent analysis of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Adverse Event Reporting System revealed 571 adverse drug events involving pregabalin between 2012 and 2016. Notably, over 10% of these cases were related to abuse or misuse of the drug. This analysis, conducted by Evoy KE in 2019, titled “Reports of gabapentin and pregabalin abuse, misuse, dependence, or overdose: An analysis of the Food and Drug Administration Adverse Events Reporting System (FAERS),” highlighted growing concerns about the abuse potential of pregabalin.

The Drug Abuse Warning Network (DAWN) has shown an increase in emergency department visits due to Lyrica misuse, with particular concern over its use in combination with other substances to enhance its euphoric effects. The European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) also noted an uptick in cases involving pregabalin misuse, particularly in countries like Serbia, where it is more widely prescribed.

In the United States, while pregabalin is not as commonly abused as opioids or benzodiazepines, it is still a growing concern in certain populations, especially those with access to prescription medication. A systematic review of 59 studies on gabapentinoid abuse by Evoy KE et al. 2017, titled “Abuse and Misuse of Pregabalin and Gabapentin. Drugs,” including pregabalin (Lyrica), 3% to 68% of opioid users abuse these drugs. Over 11,900 abuse reports were recorded between 2004-2015, with 75% occurring after 2012. Self-administration of higher doses for euphoria is increasing, and risk factors include a history of substance abuse and psychiatric conditions. While these drugs are not lethal in high doses, they are increasingly found in post-mortem toxicology reports, highlighting their growing role in overdoses. 

The rise of Lyrica misuse highlights the need for careful monitoring by healthcare providers and awareness of the signs of potential misuse or addiction. Treatment for Lyrica addiction involves detoxification, behavioral therapies, and support groups designed to address both the physical dependence and psychological cravings associated with the drug.

How Addictive is Lyrica? 

Lyrica is significantly addictive, primarily due to its effects on the brain’s neurotransmitters, leading to euphoric sensations, particularly at higher doses. Although initially prescribed for conditions such as neuropathic pain, anxiety disorders, and seizures, its misuse has become increasingly common. 

Pregabalin (Lyrica) abuse is rising, especially among individuals with a history of substance use disorders, such as opioid addiction. According to research by Evoy KE et al. 2017, titled “Abuse and Misuse of Pregabalin and Gabapentin. Drugs,” 1.6% of the general population abuse gabapentinoids, including Lyrica. 

Dependence develops when individuals begin self-administering higher-than-prescribed doses to experience euphoria, and withdrawal symptoms include anxiety, insomnia, and sweating. The risk of developing dependence is particularly high in those with a history of opioid use or psychiatric disorders, making it important for healthcare providers to closely monitor patients on Lyrica, especially those with a history of substance abuse.

Why is Lyrica Addictive? 

Lyrica is addictive because it affects the nervous system, particularly by interacting with GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) receptors in the brain. While GABA is naturally involved in inhibiting neural activity and promoting calmness, Lyrica increases the release of GABA, producing a sedative effect that leads to feelings of euphoria. 

These addictive properties make Lyrica appealing to individuals seeking to self-medicate or experience a high. With prolonged use or misuse, the brain becomes reliant on the drug to maintain normal functioning, leading to dependence. As tolerance builds, users escalate doses to achieve the desired effects, further increasing the risk of addiction. 

Over time, the brain’s reward system becomes conditioned to the drug, and withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, irritability, and insomnia occur if use is reduced or stopped. Consequently, Lyrica’s impact on the GABA system and its ability to cause euphoria makes it highly prone to misuse and addiction, especially in individuals with a history of substance abuse.

Is Lyrica Addictive if Taken as Prescribed?

Yes, Lyrica is addictive even if taken as prescribed, though the risk is lower compared to misuse. While Lyrica is intended for medical use to treat conditions like neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia, and seizures, its potential for dependence exists due to its addictive properties. Even when used as prescribed, particularly over long periods, some individuals develop tolerance, meaning they require higher doses to achieve the same effect. 

Tolerance of Lyrica increases the risk of developing physical dependence and addiction. It’s important to follow dosage guidelines carefully and communicate with a healthcare provider to monitor any signs of tolerance or dependence. Safe usage involves taking the prescribed dose as directed and avoiding any alterations in dosage or frequency without medical supervision. Proper management significantly reduces the risk of addiction, but vigilance is important, particularly for those with a history of substance abuse.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Lyrica Addiction?  

The signs and symptoms of Lyrica addiction include physical, psychological, and behavioral indicators, which vary in severity depending on the extent of misuse and the individual’s physiology. These symptoms happen because of the way Lyrica interacts with the nervous system, especially by influencing GABA receptors and other neurotransmitter systems in the brain. Over time, misuse leads to a profound chemical dependence, making it difficult to function without the drug. 

The physical signs and symptoms of Lyrica addiction are as follows:

• Tolerance: Tolerance is the hallmark of addiction. Tolerance occurs when the body adapts to the drug, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect. This leads to escalating dosages and an increased risk of overdose. The body adjusts its nervous system to accommodate the drug, leading to dependence.
• Drowsiness and dizziness: Lyrica causes extreme drowsiness and dizziness, which become more pronounced with abuse. These physical effects occur as the drug impacts GABA receptors, slowing down brain activity and altering the body’s response. If misused, these symptoms significantly impair daily function and require professional intervention to manage.
• Withdrawal symptoms: Withdrawal symptoms include anxiety, insomnia, sweating, and tremors when the drug is suddenly stopped or reduced, as studied by Drugs.com. Withdrawal is a result of the body’s dependence on Lyrica to maintain normal nervous system functioning.

The psychological signs and symptoms of Lyrica addiction are as follows:

• Euphoria and mood swings: Many individuals misuse Lyrica for the euphoric feelings it produces. Over time, this emotional fluctuation becomes more intense as the brain’s reward system is overstimulated. This psychological dependence is particularly challenging because it compels users to seek out the drug to relieve negative emotions or cravings, making it difficult to break free from the cycle of addiction.
• Anxiety and depression: As tolerance builds, many individuals experience significant anxiety and depression when not using the drug. This is due to the disruption in natural neurotransmitter activity, as the brain becomes reliant on Lyrica to regulate mood and anxiety levels, as studied by ABC.net in “Lyrica, a drug linked to depression and anxiety, now the top pain medication on the PBS.” Managing these psychological symptoms requires therapy and support from behavioral treatments.

The behavioral signs and symptoms of Lyrica addiction are as follows: 

• Increased use and secrecy: One of the most telling signs of addiction is the increase in frequency and quantity of use, paired with secrecy. Those addicted to Lyrica go to great lengths to hide their drug use, taking higher doses or using the medication more than prescribed to avoid detection. This occurs as the brain’s dopamine pathways are altered, reinforcing the compulsive desire for the drug.
• Neglecting responsibilities: As addiction takes hold, individuals neglect work, social, or family responsibilities due to their focus on obtaining and using Lyrica. This shift in priorities is a behavioral manifestation of addiction, driven by both the physical cravings and the psychological drive to sustain the euphoric effects.

What are the Effects of Lyrica Addiction?  

The effects of Lyrica addiction include physical, psychological, and social consequences that significantly impact an individual’s health and lifestyle. Abuse of the drug leads to both short- and long-term risks that range from cognitive and motor impairments to serious organ damage and social isolation. Lyrica addiction alters a person’s behavior, judgment, and ability to function in daily life, leading to diminished quality of life and severe health issues.

Short-Term Effects of Lyrica Abuse

The short-term effects of Lyrica abuse include dizziness, cognitive impairment, and reduced coordination that compromise daily functioning and increase the risk of accidents or injuries. If misuse continues, these short-term effects progress into more severe, long-term health complications.

The short-term effects of Lyrica abuse are as follows:

• Dizziness: Lyrica causes intense dizziness, especially when taken in higher doses than prescribed. This is due to its effects on the central nervous system, slowing down brain activity and causing disorientation, as Healthline studied in “Lyrica: Side Effects and How to Manage Them.”
• Euphoria: Euphoria is the intense feeling of pleasure that occurs due to pregabalin’s ability to increase dopamine release, activating the brain’s reward system. Though mild in severity for therapeutic doses, misuse of Lyrica amplifies this effect, contributing to its abuse potential.
• Cognitive impairment: Individuals abusing Lyrica experience memory issues, difficulty concentrating, and slower reaction times. These cognitive changes result from the drug’s impact on neurotransmitters like GABA, which are involved in memory and learning.
• Reduced coordination: Lyrica impairs motor skills, making tasks such as driving or handling machinery hazardous. This is linked to the drug’s effects on brain signaling, particularly in areas responsible for movement and coordination.
• Blurred Vision: Temporary vision disturbances occur due to Lyrica’s impact on GABAergic pathways, affecting visual processing. The severity of this short-term effect is mild but highly disruptive to daily activities.
• Nausea: Nausea is a digestive side effect that stems from Lyrica’s influence on neurotransmitter regulation in the gut. It is usually short-lived but uncomfortable.

Long-Term Health Risks of Lyrica Addiction

The long-term health risks of Lyrica addiction include cognitive decline, organ damage, and mental health issues. These risks pose serious health threats and require medical intervention to manage or reverse the damage done by prolonged Lyrica abuse.

The long-term health risks of Lyrica addiction are as follows:

• Cognitive decline: Chronic misuse of Lyrica leads to significant cognitive impairments, including memory loss and difficulty with complex tasks, as studied by WebMD in “Pregabalin (Lyrica) – Uses, Side Effects, and More.” This is due to the drug’s sustained alteration of nervous system function, which damages areas of the brain involved in learning and decision-making.
• Organ damage: Long-term use of Lyrica contributes to liver and kidney damage, as these organs are responsible for metabolizing the drug. Persistent abuse overwhelms their capacity to process the substance, leading to organ stress and potential failure.
• Mental health issues: Prolonged misuse exacerbates pre-existing mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression, and also leads to the development of new psychiatric disorders, as studied by Medical News Today in “Lyrica: Side effects and how to manage them.” Dependence on Lyrica alters brain chemistry, which affects emotional regulation and behavior.
• Slurred Speech: Slurred speech is a sign of neurological impairment. This occurs with extended use due to the drug’s sedative effects on central motor pathways. It becomes severe with chronic misuse over time.
• Mood Swings: Lyrica abuse affects the brain’s emotional regulation pathways, leading to unpredictable mood changes. Over time, this exacerbates mental health conditions like anxiety or depression.

Lyrica Addiction’s Impact on Personal and Social Life

Lyrica addiction impacts the personal and social lives of individuals abusing it by damaging relationships, employment, and social engagement. These personal and social consequences deepen the cycle of addiction, making it harder for individuals to break free from the hold of Lyrica and rebuild their lives. 

The impact of Lyrica addiction on personal and social lives are as follows:

• Relationships: As addiction takes hold, individuals withdraw from family and friends, hiding their use and neglecting their relationships. The erratic behavior and mood swings caused by the drug cause tension and mistrust in close relationships.
• Employment: Cognitive impairment and reduced coordination affect an individual’s work performance, leading to absenteeism or even job loss. Employees struggling with Lyrica addiction also exhibit poor judgment and decision-making at work, further compromising their career prospects.
• Social engagement: Lyrica addiction leads to social isolation, as users prioritize drug use over social interactions. The drug’s calming and euphoric effects create a false sense of well-being, making it difficult for users to engage in normal social activities.

What Are Common Withdrawal Symptoms from Lyrica? 

The common withdrawal symptoms from Lyrica include anxiety, sweating, and nausea, according to a study by Naveed S, Faquih AE, and Chaudhary AMD. et al. 2018, titled “Pregabalin-associated Discontinuation Symptoms: A Case Report.” These symptoms reflect the body’s struggle to adjust to the absence of the drug, particularly as it affects the nervous system and alters neurotransmitter activity.

The common withdrawal symptoms from Lyrica are as follows:

• Sweating: Sweating is a common withdrawal symptom that occurs as the body tries to regulate itself after discontinuing Lyrica. Chills and body temperature regulation issues accompany sweating during withdrawal.
• Nausea: Many users experience nausea as part of the withdrawal process, which is caused by the sudden change in neurotransmitter levels that Lyrica has previously regulated, particularly GABA activity.
• Anxiety: As Lyrica acts on the nervous system, prolonged use leads to dependence, and withdrawal triggers feelings of intense fear and restlessness. This is because the drug’s presence has altered the brain’s natural balance of neurotransmitters.
• Depression: Feelings of sadness or depression also arise during withdrawal as the brain struggles to regain its chemical equilibrium, especially if Lyrica has been used to self-medicate mental health conditions.
• Rebound symptoms: The withdrawal process is particularly difficult for those who have used Lyrica for an extended period or at high doses. Unsupplied withdrawal leads to complications, such as rebound symptoms, where the original condition (e.g., pain or anxiety) worsens before improvement is seen. Users need to undergo medical supervision to manage these symptoms effectively and reduce the risks associated with abrupt cessation.

How Long Does Lyrica Withdrawal Last? 

Lyrica withdrawal lasts from 2 days to 2 weeks, according to a study by Barrett, J.A., Kittler, L.M., & Singarajah, C. et al. 2015 titled “Acute pregabalin withdrawal: a case report and review of the literature,” The exact duration depends on factors such as the individual’s usage patterns, dosage, and whether the drug was tapered off or stopped abruptly. 

Withdrawal symptoms begin within 1 to 3 days after discontinuation, marked by physical discomfort such as sweating, nausea, and headaches, as well as psychological symptoms like anxiety and irritability. The intensity of withdrawal symptoms usually peaks around the 4th or 5th day, with users experiencing heightened anxiety, depression, restlessness, and cognitive challenges. 

While physical symptoms subside after a week, psychological effects persist for up to 2-4 weeks, depending on the person. Some individuals experience protracted withdrawal, where symptoms such as anxiety or depression linger beyond the common timeline. Withdrawal should be managed under medical supervision, as abrupt cessation leads to severe discomfort and complications.

How Long Does Lyrica Stay in Your System?  

Lyrica (pregabalin) stays in your system for about 35 hours, though its clinical effects subside before this time, according to a study by Drugs titled “How long does Lyrica stay in your system?” The half-life of pregabalin is approximately 6.3 hours, meaning that it takes around 6.3 hours for the drug’s concentration in the blood to reduce by half. 

Lyrica takes about 5 to 5.5 half-lives (roughly 32 to 35 hours) to be eliminated from the body. Despite this, pregabalin is still detected in urine for up to 5 to 6 days after use. While standard workplace drug tests do not screen for pregabalin, it is detected if specifically tested for, especially in cases of suspected misuse or abuse.

What are the Treatment Options for Lyrica Addiction?  

The treatment options for Lyrica addiction include medical detox, behavioral therapies, and holistic approaches. Medical detox serves as the first step in addressing physical dependence by safely managing withdrawal symptoms under medical supervision. Behavioral therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) address psychological triggers and provide strategies for long-term recovery. Holistic and supportive approaches, such as mindfulness practices and nutrition support, complement these treatments. Among these, behavioral therapies are the most effective as they address underlying patterns of addiction and equip individuals with tools to maintain sobriety.

1. Medical Detox

Medical detox involves safely clearing Lyrica (pregabalin) from the body while managing withdrawal symptoms in a controlled environment. This process occurs under medical supervision to ensure patient safety, particularly since withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, and seizures occur. The detox process includes tapering off the drug gradually to reduce withdrawal severity and using supportive medications as needed. Medical detox is recommended for individuals with severe physical dependence to prevent complications and stabilize them before entering further treatment programs.

2. Behavioral Therapies

Behavioral therapies to treat Lyrica addiction include CBT, DBT, and Contingency Management (CM). These therapies focus on addressing the psychological and behavioral aspects of addiction.

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Teaches individuals to identify and change harmful thought patterns that contribute to substance use. It is particularly effective in preventing relapse and managing cravings.
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Combines mindfulness and emotional regulation techniques to manage stress and reduce impulsive behaviors related to addiction.
• Contingency Management (CM): Uses positive reinforcement, such as rewards, to encourage sobriety and adherence to treatment plans. Studies show behavioral therapies significantly improve recovery outcomes for Lyrica addiction as they address the root causes of misuse.

3. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for Lyrica addiction involves using non-addictive medications to manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings. While no medications are specifically FDA-approved for Lyrica dependence, off-label use of sedatives, anti-anxiety medications, or anticonvulsants help stabilize patients during detox. A healthcare provider guides the use of MAT to address withdrawal challenges effectively.

4. Holistic and Supportive Approaches

Holistic and supportive approaches emphasize treating the whole person rather than just the addiction. These methods enhance physical, emotional, and social well-being during recovery.

• Mindfulness Practices: Techniques like meditation help reduce stress and improve emotional regulation, reducing the risk of relapse.
• Exercise: Physical activity promotes the release of endorphins, aiding in mood stabilization and overall well-being.
• Group Therapy: Peer support groups provide a sense of community and shared experiences, encouraging long-term recovery.
• Nutrition Support: A balanced diet supports physical recovery and helps the body heal from the effects of addiction.

Can Lyrica Addiction Be Treated at Home? 

No, Lyrica addiction cannot be effectively treated at home without professional help because doing so poses significant risks, including severe withdrawal symptoms like seizures, heightened anxiety, or insomnia, which require medical supervision. 

Professional treatment provides a structured approach, including medical detox to manage withdrawal safely, behavioral therapies to address psychological triggers, and supportive care to reduce the risk of relapse. Attempting home treatment without guidance increases the likelihood of complications and decreases the chance of long-term recovery. Seeking professional help ensures safety and improves treatment outcomes.

How to Prevent Relapse After Lyrica Addiction Recovery? 

To prevent relapse after Lyrica addiction recovery, individuals need to adopt strategies that build resilience and support long-term sobriety. These include creating a personalized relapse prevention plan that identifies triggers, outlines coping mechanisms, and promotes healthy lifestyle adjustments. These approaches work collectively to minimize relapse risks and reinforce recovery progress.

To prevent relapse after Lyrica’s addiction recovery, the following methods are employed:

• Creating a Relapse Prevention Plan: A relapse prevention plan involves identifying personal triggers, such as stress, certain environments, or social interactions that lead to cravings. Coping mechanisms like mindfulness, stress management techniques, and consistent daily routines help individuals navigate challenges without returning to substance use.
• Leveraging Support Networks in Recovery: Building and maintaining relationships with supportive family members and friends or joining recovery-focused groups like Narcotics Anonymous provide the social encouragement necessary to stay committed to sobriety. Peer groups also offer shared experiences and strategies for staying sober.
• Implementing Follow-Up Care and Aftercare Programs: Continued therapy through cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or group therapy sessions address underlying issues and reinforce recovery skills. Regular check-ins with addiction specialists or participation in structured aftercare programs help maintain accountability and provide ongoing support.

How to Help a Loved One Who Struggles with Lyrica Addiction?

To help a loved one who is struggling with Lyrica addiction, it’s important to approach the situation with empathy, understanding, and patience. Open communication is key—express concern without judgment and encourage them to share their struggles. Being consistent in emotional and practical support while respecting their autonomy is important for fostering trust and promoting recovery.

To help a loved one who is struggling with Lyrica addiction, the following strategies are adopted:

• Educate Yourself About Addiction: Understanding the nature of Lyrica addiction, its causes, and its effects on the brain and behavior helps you empathize and provide informed support. This knowledge allows you to avoid unintentional stigmatization and communicate effectively.
• Encourage Open Communication: Create a safe, nonjudgmental space where your loved one feels comfortable sharing their feelings. Active listening and validation of their experiences help them feel understood and less isolated.
• Facilitate Access to Professional Help: Help them find resources such as addiction counselors, rehabilitation programs, or support groups. Offer to attend appointments or provide logistical support to ease their journey toward recovery.
• Set Healthy Boundaries: While supporting them, it’s important to protect your mental health. Establishing boundaries ensures that their recovery doesn’t negatively impact their well-being and enables a balanced relationship.
• Be a Source of Encouragement: Celebrate small milestones in their recovery journey and remain optimistic about their ability to overcome addiction. Positive reinforcement boosts their confidence and motivation to stay sober.

How Addictive is Lyrica in Compared to Other Drugs?  

Lyrica is moderately addictive compared to other drugs. While its potential for addiction is lower than that of opioids and benzodiazepines, it surpasses gabapentin and other non-controlled medications like SSRIs or muscle relaxants. Its addictive properties are attributed to its effects on the central nervous system, leading to euphoria and dependence in susceptible individuals. 

Lyrica is compared to other drugs as follows:

• Lyrica vs. Gabapentin: Both are gabapentinoids, but Lyrica (pregabalin) is more potent and carries a higher risk of misuse. A study by  Evoy et al., 2019 found a 1.6% prevalence of gabapentinoid misuse in the general population, but misuse rates were higher for Lyrica in clinical observations.
• Lyrica vs. Benzodiazepines: Benzodiazepines are more addictive due to their strong sedative and anxiolytic effects. Over 30.5 million prescriptions for benzodiazepines were issued in 2020 in the U.S., according to the CDC, with significant misuse potential. Lyrica’s addictive potential is lower but still significant among those with a history of benzodiazepine abuse. 
• Lyrica vs. Opioids: Opioids are among the most addictive drugs, with over 2.5 million Americans suffering from opioid use disorder, as reported by NIDA. Lyrica’s risk is comparatively lower but is misused to enhance opioid effects, particularly in patients with chronic pain.
• Lyrica vs. Tramadol: Tramadol, a weaker opioid, has a higher addiction risk than Lyrica. Both drugs share withdrawal and tolerance issues, but tramadol is more likely to lead to severe dependence. Tramadol misuse prevalence is rising, with many cases involving long-term pain management. According to the postmarketing surveillance by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the rate of addiction was 1 in 100,000 during 18 months of surveillance.
• Lyrica vs. SSRIs and SNRIs: Lyrica’s addictive potential far exceeds that of SSRIs and SNRIs, which are non-addictive. However, abrupt discontinuation of SSRIs leads to withdrawal-like symptoms, while Lyrica misuse leads to physical dependence.
• Lyrica vs. Carbamazepine and Topiramate: Carbamazepine and Topiramate are older anticonvulsants that are less associated with addictive behavior compared to Lyrica. They lack the euphoric effects that make Lyrica appealing for misuse.
• Lyrica vs. Muscle Relaxants: Muscle relaxants like cyclobenzaprine have a low addiction risk, making Lyrica comparatively more addictive due to its CNS effects and misuse potential. However, misuse rates for muscle relaxants are also increasing, albeit less than for Lyrica.