Does concomitant use of gabapentin with Adderall (amphetamine and dextroamphetamine) provoke euphoric effects in individuals seeking drugs?

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Last updated: May 25, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

Combining gabapentin with Adderall is not medically recommended due to the potential for serious health risks, including irregular heartbeat, dangerous blood pressure changes, respiratory depression, seizures, and worsening of mental health conditions, as well as a significant risk of physical dependence, addiction, and overdose 1. When taken together, these medications can create intensified feelings of pleasure or euphoria because they affect different but complementary neurotransmitter systems in the brain. Adderall increases dopamine and norepinephrine levels, while gabapentin affects GABA and calcium channels.

Key Considerations

  • The combination of gabapentin and Adderall can lead to serious health risks, including:
    • Irregular heartbeat
    • Dangerous blood pressure changes
    • Respiratory depression
    • Seizures
    • Worsening of mental health conditions
  • The combination also carries a significant risk of physical dependence, addiction, and overdose
  • Obtaining these medications without legitimate prescriptions is illegal
  • Anyone experiencing substance use issues should seek help from healthcare providers who can offer appropriate treatment options rather than pursuing potentially harmful drug combinations 1

Recommendation

Gabapentin and Adderall should not be combined, and individuals experiencing substance use issues should seek help from healthcare providers to explore safe and effective treatment options 1.

From the Research

Gabapentin and Adderall Combination

  • There is no direct evidence in the provided studies to suggest that using gabapentin with Adderall provokes euphoric effects for drug seekers 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
  • The studies primarily focus on the use of gabapentin in treating various medical conditions, such as epilepsy, neuropathic pain, and psychiatric disorders, rather than its potential for euphoric effects when combined with other substances like Adderall.

Adverse Effects of Gabapentin Combination Therapy

  • A study published in 2021 reported adverse effects, including drowsiness, dizziness, fatigue, and ataxia, when gabapentin was used in combination with pregabalin 2.
  • Another study from 2022 found that concurrent utilization of gabapentin, opioids, and benzodiazepines was associated with increased odds of respiratory depression, opioid-related overdose, and substance-related overdose 3.

Gabapentin's Potential for Abuse

  • A systematic review from 2019 suggested that gabapentin may have some therapeutic potential in the treatment of opioid addiction and cannabis dependence, but there is limited evidence to support its use 4.
  • A review from 2015 found that gabapentin may have benefit for some anxiety disorders and alcohol craving and withdrawal symptoms, but there is no clear evidence for its use in depression, PTSD prevention, OCD, or other types of substance abuse 5.

Conclusion is not allowed, and the response should continue with more information

More Information on Gabapentin

  • Gabapentin is commonly used off-label in the treatment of psychiatric disorders, with some evidence suggesting its effectiveness in anxiety disorders and alcohol dependence 4, 5.
  • However, more clinical trials with larger patient populations are needed to support gabapentin's off-label use in psychiatric disorders and substance use disorders 4.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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