Module 2: Basic Pharmacology of Controlled Drugs and Substances
Lesson 3
Other agents – Gabapentinoids
Gabapentinoids are medications that are not controlled under federal legislation or regulations but are monitored through some provincial prescription monitoring programs (e.g., Saskatchewan Prescription Review Program), primarily due to reported incidence of misuse in Saskatchewan.
Gabapentinoids are antiepileptic agents that are used for chronic neuropathic-type pain (e.g. diabetic neuropathy, trigeminal neuropathy) and other types of nerve pain. Adverse effects associated with this medication, such as euphoria or “feeling high”, make it a potential agent of misuse (Webb, 2008).
References:
- CADTH. (2010). Use of Gabapentin as an Anxiolytic: Clinical Effectiveness and Guidelines. Retrieved from https://www.cadth.ca/use-gabapentin-anxiolytic-clinical-effectiveness-and-guidelines-0
- Webb, J. (2008). Gabapentin: Another drug of misuse? British Columbia Pharmacists Association Tablet, 17(3), 12–3.
