Lyrica vs. Gabapentin: What's the Difference?

• How Long Does Lyrica Stay in Your System?
• Signs and Symptoms of Lyrica Addiction
• Lyrica Withdrawal Symptoms
• What Is Gabapentin?
• How Long Does Gabapentin Stay in Your System?
• Signs and Symptoms of Gabapentin Addiction
• Gabapentin Withdrawal Symptoms
• Lyrica Uses vs. Gabapentin Uses
• Lyrica vs. Gabapentin: Addiction and Dependence
• Lyrica vs. Gabapentin: Side Effects of Abuse
• Get Lyrica Addiction Treatment or Gabapentin Addiction Treatment Today

Lyrica vs. Gabapentin: What’s the Difference?

Lyrica and gabapentin are both anticonvulsants that may be used to treat nerve pain and seizures. Although both medications can be misused, one of the main differences between the two is that Lyrica is classified as a controlled substance. Lyrica is also absorbed more rapidly by the body than gabapentin and studies show Lyrica may be a more potent anticonvulsant drug.

Lyrica is a brand name for the drug pregabalin, which is a prescription drug that is used to treat pain, certain types of seizures, and nerve damage caused by shingles, diabetes, and spinal cord injuries.

Lyrica is structurally similar to the brain chemical known as GABA and although researchers aren’t exactly sure how it works, scientists believe that it decreases the number of nerve signals to calm overly-sensitive nerve cells. It is administered orally as a capsule or a clear, colorless solution and is usually taken two to three times a day, depending on your doctor’s recommendations.

Although Lyrica is not considered a highly addictive drug, the pain relief and feelings of mild relaxation that it produces can result in abuse, dependence, tolerance, and addiction. Some people may also take Lyrica with opioid drugs to enhance the effects of the opioid.

In most instances, people develop Lyrica addiction after taking it for a long period of time. They may also self-medicate to minimize the effects of opioid withdrawal, which can also lead to dependence and addiction.

Any drugs or drug combinations that depress the central nervous system can produce dangerous interactions and side effects when combined with Lyrica. You should never take Lyrica with the following drugs:

• Alcohol
• Opioids
• Benzodiazepines
• Barbituates¹

The DEA classifies Lyrica as a Schedule V drug, which means it has a lower potential for abuse than many other controlled substances, but it does pose a risk for misuse and dependence.²

If someone is addicted to Lyrica, he or she may show some of the following signs and symptoms:

• Consuming larger doses of Lyrica than prescribed by a doctor
• Altering the medication in any way before consuming it
• Demonstrating significant social changes
• Refusing to stop abusing Lyrica or being unable to despite the physical, social, and financial consequences
• Hiding Lyrica abuse from friends and family
• Being obsessed with taking more Lyrica or getting more
• Faking symptoms to get more Lyrica

Gabapentin is sold under the brand names Gaborone, Gralise, Neurontin, and FusePaq Fanatrex. Like Lyrica, it is prescription drug and an anticonvulsant medication that works in the brain to prevent seizures and relieve certain types of pain. It is usually prescribed to treat pain caused by diabetes and shingles, certain types of seizures, and fibromyalgia.⁵

Gabapentin is available in several different forms, including tablet, capsule, solution, and suspension form. Depending on your medical condition and your doctor’s recommendation, the most effective and safe dosage of gabapentin will vary.

Gabapentin is not currently a controlled substance and there is little risk for addiction when it is taken as prescribed. However, it is commonly abused with other drugs like opioids, muscle relaxers, or anxiety medications because it can produce a high when combined with these substances.

In May of 2017, gabapentin was the fifth most prescribed drug in the U.S. and about one-fifth of people who abuse opiates also abuse gabapentin.^6,7 Another study found that 27 percent of people abusing gabapentin were also taking it with muscle relaxers or anxiety medications and about 9 percent were taking it with illegal substances.⁸ Gabapentin is cheap and readily available so it is frequently abused by people across the U.S.

Street names or slang terms for gabapentin include:

• Gabbies
• Johnnies

Free insurance verification & consultation — call (866) 710-7710.

People who have a history of substance abuse and addiction are much more likely to abuse gabapentin.¹⁰ As a result, it’s important to be aware of the common signs and symptoms of gabapentin addiction, which include:

• Having cravings for gabapentin
• Using gabapentin in any way other than prescribed
• Faking symptoms to get gabapentin
• Hiding gabapentin use from loved ones
• Suffering physical, emotional, relational, and financial consequences due to gabapentin use
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when discontinuing gabapentin use
• Trying to stop using gabapentin but being unable to

Lyrica and gabapentin are used to treat a few of the same disorders and medical conditions, although Lyrica may also be used to treat several others.

Can you become addicted to Lyrica or gabapentin even if they're prescribed?

Yes. While both medications are prescribed for legitimate pain and seizure conditions, physical dependence and psychological addiction can develop—especially at higher doses or with prolonged use. Misuse (taking more than prescribed, combining with opioids or alcohol, or using without a prescription) significantly increases addiction risk. If you find yourself taking more than directed or experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you miss a dose, it's time to speak with a medical professional.

What are the withdrawal symptoms of Lyrica and gabapentin?

Withdrawal from either medication can include anxiety, insomnia, nausea, sweating, rapid heartbeat, tremors, confusion, and in severe cases, seizures. Because both drugs affect the central nervous system, abrupt discontinuation—especially after long-term or high-dose use—can be dangerous. Medically supervised detox at a facility like Briarwood Detox Center in Austin, TX ensures safe tapering and 24/7 monitoring to prevent complications.

How long does gabapentin or Lyrica detox take?

Detox timelines vary by individual factors—dose, duration of use, co-occurring substances, and overall health. Acute withdrawal typically peaks within 24–72 hours and may last 7–14 days, but a medically managed taper can extend over several weeks to minimize discomfort and risk. Briarwood's expert withdrawal management services customize detox protocols to each patient's needs, ensuring safety and comfort throughout the process.

Is inpatient detox necessary for Lyrica or gabapentin addiction?

For individuals who have been using high doses, combining these medications with opioids or alcohol, or have a history of seizures, inpatient detox is strongly recommended. The risk of seizures and severe withdrawal complications makes medical supervision critical. Briarwood Detox Center offers 24/7 medically supervised detox in Austin, providing medications, monitoring, and support to ensure a safe transition off these drugs.

Can I detox from gabapentin or Lyrica at home?

At-home detox from gabapentinoids is not recommended due to the risk of seizures, severe anxiety, and other life-threatening complications. Attempting to quit "cold turkey" or taper without medical guidance significantly increases relapse risk and medical emergencies. Professional detox centers like Briarwood provide evidence-based tapering protocols, emergency intervention if needed, and a structured environment free from triggers—factors that dramatically improve safety and success rates. Learn more about the hidden risks of at-home drug detox.

What happens after detox from Lyrica or gabapentin?

Detox is the critical first step, but lasting recovery requires ongoing support. After completing detox at Briarwood, patients are connected to continued outpatient support and treatment in Austin, San Antonio, Houston, or Colorado Springs. This may include counseling, medication management for co-occurring mental health conditions, peer support groups, and relapse-prevention planning. Briarwood's care coordination ensures a seamless transition from detox to sustained recovery.

Ready to take the first step toward recovery? Call Briarwood Detox Center in Austin, Texas at (866) 710-7710 for a confidential consultation. Our experienced medical team is here 24/7 to answer your questions and design a safe, personalized detox plan.