Many people using pregabalin struggle to end their use because of the withdrawal. If you have attempted to battle through withdrawal, the pain of it may not seem worth it, or you may have heard about how difficult it can be.

Fear of withdrawal is not something that you have to hide. Withdrawal is a recognised part of medicine that professionals understand can be at times hard to overcome. If you have the right support, you can get through it and come out the other side, ready to take the next step in your recovery.

Knowing what may be on the horizon can help you prepare. We’re going to take a closer look at pregabalin withdrawal symptoms, how to cope safely with it and when it might be time to get professional help.

 

What Is Pregabalin?

Pregabalin is a prescription medication that is used to treat epilepsy and anxiety, as well as conditions like fibromyalgia and neuropathic pain. It works by acting on the central nervous system, blocking pain messages to the brain and calming down damaged or overactive nerves.

In 2019, it was classified as a controlled substance, becoming a Class C drug. This was due to the rising illicit use and dependence potential of the drug. Use has not decreased, and a BBC report from 2024 found that pregabalin has the fastest-rising mortality rate of any prescription medicine in the UK, prompting a government review.

Even when taken as prescribed, regular use can result in withdrawal, which may cause people to continue using it to avoid these negative symptoms.

 

Why Pregabalin Withdrawal Happens

Withdrawal is a reaction.

When you begin to take pregabalin regularly, your body adapts to the presence of the drug. Eventually, it becomes used to it, so when it is not there, all those overactive nerve signals that the medication was calming down go into overdrive, trying to find balance.

This rebound effect causes a wide range of symptoms which make up withdrawal.

In most cases, withdrawal is a sign that you have become physically dependent on a substance as your body now relies on it being in your system. With pregabalin, withdrawal can occur even when taking it exactly as prescribed because it is there to calm nerves. When not present, they go back to being overactive again.

 

Common Pregabalin Withdrawal Symptoms

Withdrawal can be unpredictable, and it’s impossible to know before going in how you will react to it. Symptoms that you may experience can range from mild to severe depending on many factors, including dose, how long you’ve been taking pregabalin and your overall physical health.

Physical Symptoms

  • Sweating
  • Nausea
  • Headaches
  • Poor sleep
  • Diarrhoea
  • Tremors
  • Muscle pain

Psychological Symptoms

  • Anxiety
  • Low mood/depression
  • Irritability
  • Cravings
  • Concentration problems
  • Mood swings

 

How Long Does Pregabalin Withdrawal Last?

Like with the symptoms you may experience, how long withdrawal can last is not something you’ll know going into it.

Generally, pregabalin withdrawal lasts for around a week.

Withdrawal is likely to begin within a day of your last dose of pregabalin. This period is when the acute physical symptoms are likely to occur, peaking after a couple of days and beginning to recede.

After a week or so, you’ll likely be over the worst of it. However, some psychological symptoms such as cravings may persist for a long time, and others like poor sleep may linger for weeks. With gradual tapering in a professional setting, more severe withdrawal symptoms can be avoided.

 

Coping Strategies for Pregabalin Withdrawal

You must look after yourself when going through withdrawal. Only if you are truly incapacitated should you not push yourself too hard.

Self-care that can help you cope with pregabalin withdrawal includes:

  • Prioritising sleep
  • Stay hydrated
  • Keep a routine to make you feel normal
  • Gentle activity (walking, chair yoga)
  • Do things you enjoy (watch your favourite film, take a bath)

Tapering Safely Under Medical Guidance

You should never stop pregabalin abruptly. This can bring on severe withdrawal symptoms that can be dangerous or discourage you from sticking to ending your dependence. Instead, you should taper off, taking less and less gradually.

When you do this, even if you are at home, you should inform your doctor beforehand to ensure you are being as safe as possible.

Building a Support Network

You shouldn’t go through withdrawal alone. If at home, make sure you have family and friends to reach out to or to be with you for emotional and practical support.

A support network can also be people who know what you are going through. There are various group meetings that you can attend or be involved with to get key support during withdrawal.

Treatment providers can also be a source of support if you are undergoing professional treatment. Staff members will be on hand to help you through withdrawal, keeping you safe and supporting you when you need it.

Medically Supervised Detox

Withdrawal in a professional rehab means going through detox.  During this process, you’ll be in a comfortable and safe setting, under 24/7 medical care, where you may be given medication to help ease severe withdrawal symptoms.

This type of detox is appropriate for those with strong addictions or who are experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms.

 

When to Seek Professional Help

There may come a time when you need to reach out for professional help. In some cases, it can be urgent.

Clear signs that you need urgent medical attention due to pregabalin use include:

  • Severe mood swings (acting dangerously to yourself or others)
  • Suicidal thoughts
  • Seizures
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Rapid heartbeat

Urgent signs are not always present, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get help. Signs that it may be time to think about rehabilitation and reach out to a professional include:

  • Continuing to use pregabalin despite the negative effects
  • Lying about your pregabalin use
  • Cravings
  • Tried to quit and have been unable to
  • Doctor shopping to obtain more pregabalin

You may feel ashamed or weak for searching for help, but you shouldn’t be. No one has to be alone in their struggle, and asking for help is the first positive step towards recovery.

 

Learn More About Pregabalin Withdrawal Today

Pregabalin is a useful prescription drug that can be a lifesaver for many. However, it does carry a risk of dependency, and withdrawal can be difficult to go through without professional help.

If you are struggling with pregabalin withdrawal, then you should consider reaching out to us at Asana Lodge. We are professionals and can talk to you confidentially about a safe, supervised withdrawal plan.

It’s important that you remain safe, and tapering of any medication should be done gradually and under medical guidance. You’re not alone in this, so reach out to Asana Lodge today for confidential guidance and support.

Back to all posts