Mixing alcohol and Pregabalin

The increase in Pregabalin-related deaths has created a panic among healthcare professionals, regulators, and patients about the need for tougher prescribing guidelines, awareness of its abuse potential, and the importance of monitoring its use closely, particularly in conjunction with alcohol use. The discussion is further complicated by the drug being both a life-altering medication for those suffering from chronic pain and anxiety and a substance that can lead to addiction and serious health issues.

What is pregabalin?

Pregabalin, marketed under the brand name Lyrica, is an anticonvulsant, analgesic, and anxiolytic medication.

It operates by inhibiting calcium channels in the nervous system, leading to a reduction in neurotransmitter release and, therefore, a decrease in nerve pain and seizures.

Pregabalin is primarily prescribed for the following conditions:

• Epilepsy
• Neuropathic pain (including diabetic neuropathy and postherpetic neuralgia)
• Fibromyalgia
• Restless leg syndrome
• Opioid withdrawal
• Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD)

Pregabalin is particularly effective in the treatment of GAD and has demonstrated benefits in reducing preoperative anxiety and managing social anxiety disorder.

Pregabalin is particularly valued in cases where other treatments have failed or are not tolerated. It is often chosen for its manageable side effects, which, while including dizziness and sleepiness, tend to be preferable to those of other medications.

Alcohol and its effects

Alcohol is a psychoactive substance with dependence-producing properties, widely used across cultures for centuries. It acts as a central nervous system depressant, affecting brain function by slowing down neural activity. This can result in changes in mood, behaviour, and cognitive functions such as judgement and coordination. Short and long-term effects of alcohol consumption include:

• Impaired judgement
• Reduced coordination
• Delayed reaction times
• Chronic health issues such as liver disease
• Cardiovascular problems
• An increased risk of certain cancers

The potential for addiction arises from alcohol’s impact on the brain’s reward system, creating a cycle of dependency. Symptoms of alcoholism include a strong craving for alcohol, loss of control over drinking, withdrawal symptoms when not drinking, and increasing tolerance, requiring more alcohol to achieve the same effect.

The impact of alcoholism extends to both physical and mental health. Physically, it can cause liver cirrhosis, pancreatitis, and cardiovascular diseases. Mentally, it is associated with anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders. Socially, alcoholism can lead to relationship problems, job loss, and legal issues.

The dangers of mixing alcohol with pregabalin

Alcohol and pregabalin both exert depressive effects on the central nervous system (CNS). Pregabalin functions primarily as an anticonvulsant and neuropathic pain agent, modulating the release of neurotransmitters. When combined with alcohol, these depressive effects are amplified, leading to significant pharmacological interactions. Both substances can increase sedation, impair cognitive functions, and reduce overall CNS activity.

The concurrent use of alcohol and pregabalin can enhance the side effects of each substance. Alcohol can worsen the side effects of pregabalin, such as dizziness, drowsiness, and difficulty concentrating. This can lead to impaired judgement and dangerous behaviours, such as driving under the influence. Moreover, combining these substances can increase the risk of respiratory depression, a condition where breathing becomes inadequate, which can be life-threatening.

Individuals who consume alcohol while taking pregabalin may experience exacerbated symptoms, including:

• Severe sedation
• Dizziness
• Cognitive impairment
• Respiratory depression (slow and shallow breathing, which requires immediate medical attention)
• Extreme drowsiness
• Confusion
• Blue-coloured skin and lips due to hypoxia

Common myths about mixing alcohol and drugs

Mixing alcohol with pregabalin is associated with several myths and misconceptions, which can lead to dangerous outcomes. Here are some common myths and the realities behind them:

• “It’s safe to drink moderately while on Pregabalin”

Reality: As already stated, both pregabalin and alcohol are central nervous system (CNS) depressants. Combining them can enhance the sedative effects, leading to increased drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination. This combination can also result in severe respiratory depression, which can be fatal.

• “Occasional drinking is harmless”

Reality: Even occasional drinking while on pregabalin can significantly impair cognitive and motor functions. The interaction can lower your threshold for intoxication, making you more susceptible to accidents and injuries.

3. “Mixing pregabalin and alcohol doesn’t cause long-term harm”

Reality: Chronic use of both substances can lead to severe health issues, including liver damage, increased risk of addiction, and exacerbation of mental health disorders. Individuals with pre-existing conditions like liver or kidney disease are at greater risk of adverse effects.

4. “You can skip a dose of Pregabalin if you want to drink”

Reality: Skipping doses to drink alcohol can still be very risky. The drug remains in your system for a while, and its interactions with alcohol can still pose significant risks. Moreover, inconsistent use of pregabalin can lead to withdrawal symptoms and reduced effectiveness in managing the conditions it was prescribed for.

5. “It’s only dangerous if you drink a lot”

Reality: The dangers of mixing pregabalin and alcohol do not depend solely on the quantity of alcohol consumed. Even small amounts can lead to severe side effects, including enhanced sedation, confusion, and potentially life-threatening respiratory depression.

Overall, while some individuals might tolerate small amounts of alcohol without immediate severe effects, the consensus among healthcare providers is to avoid alcohol while taking pregabalin to prevent potentially serious health risks. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your medication or alcohol consumption habits.

Seeking help and treatment options

Seeking professional help for alcohol addiction is crucial for achieving long-term recovery. Alcohol addiction is a complex condition that affects not only physical health but also mental and social well-being. Professional help provides a structured environment with access to various evidence-based treatments that significantly enhance the chances of recovery.

In summary, seeking professional help for alcohol addiction is vital for effective recovery. The dangers of mixing alcohol with medications like pregabalin are extremely serious. It is crucial to seek appropriate medical guidance for alcohol addiction and any prescribed medications.

UKAT can provide the much needed guidance for you on your recovery from addiction, contact us today to find out more.