A Hidden Pandemic? Abuse of Gabapentinoids: A Brief Review of Recent Studies.

Abstract

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. 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. 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. Gabapentinoids are highly abused molecules worldwide. Physicians should be aware of their abuse potential.