Understanding Mood and Misuse: Why Does Gabapentin Make Me Happy?
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4 min read
Over 99% of outpatient gabapentin prescriptions between 2011 and 2016 were for off-label uses, including mental health conditions, and some individuals report a mood-enhancing effect. However, this reported happiness is a complex phenomenon, tied to the medication's therapeutic effects on anxiety and pain, as well as a potential for recreational misuse and dependence.