Pregabalin ‘Street Drug’ Seizures Surge in France Amid misuse Concerns

French authorities are grappling with a surge in seizures of pregabalin, a prescription medication increasingly misused as a street drug. In mid-April, customs officials in Paris intercepted 30,000 doses of pregabalin alongside other contraband, highlighting a growing trend observed since 2023.

The Rise of Pregabalin as a Street Drug

Pregabalin, sometimes called “the poor’s drug,” is being sold on the streets of Paris and Marseille, France, as a cheaper alternative to drugs like cocaine.According to addictologist Dr. Dorian Rollet, Lyrica, a brand name for pregabalin, is readily available on the street market for €1-3 per dose, compared to approximately €66 per gram for cocaine.

Did You Know? Pregabalin is also prescribed to treat neuropathic pain, a type of long-lasting pain caused by nerve damage from conditions like diabetes and shingles [[2]].

Why is Pregabalin Being Misused?

Originally prescribed for conditions like epilepsy and generalized anxiety disorder, pregabalin is being diverted for its anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) and analgesic (pain-relieving) effects. Dr.Rollet notes that users also seek its euphoric and psychostimulant properties.

Dr. Laurène Dufayet, a medical examiner and toxicologist, explains that manny young people, notably those in migratory situations, use pregabalin to “forget” their hardships. The National Medicines Safety Agency (ANSM) reports that abuse and dependence cases are predominantly among men (82%), with a significant portion being minors (25%).

the Dangers of Pregabalin Misuse

while the risk of overdose from pregabalin alone is considered low, Dr.Dufayet warns of a heightened risk of overdose and respiratory arrest when combined with other drugs or alcohol [[1]]. She also emphasizes the drug’s potential for dependence due to its effects on the central nervous system.

Pro Tip: If you are taking pregabalin, it is crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions and avoid alcohol or other drugs that can increase the risk of side effects [[1]].

Efforts to Combat Pregabalin Misuse

In 2021, the ANSM implemented stricter prescription guidelines, limiting prescriptions to six months and requiring secure prescription forms to deter falsification. Despite these measures, reported cases of abuse, dependence, and related complications continue to rise.

According to Corinne Cléostrate, a customs supervisor, the illicit pregabalin is often trafficked through express and postal services, with orders placed on the Darknet.Seizures have occurred at airports, such as the discovery of over 13,000 tablets from a traveler arriving from Greece at Beauvais Airport in January. A previous operation by the National Antifraude Office (ONAF) uncovered a network trafficking 300,000 tablets to Marseille, generating €600,000 in revenue.

Cléostrate notes that the drug’s origin is not always Greece, as it can be manufactured in countries like China, Bulgaria, Poland, or Germany.

Pregabalin Dosage and Forms

Pregabalin is available in capsule form and is prescribed in varying dosages depending on the condition being treated [[3]]. It is indeed crucial to adhere to a doctor’s prescribed dosage and to never share prescription medication with others.

Disclaimer: This article provides information for general knowledge and awareness only. it does not constitute medical advice and should not be substituted for professional medical consultation. If you have concerns about pregabalin use or addiction,consult a qualified healthcare provider.

What steps can be taken to further prevent the misuse of prescription medications like pregabalin? How can communities better support individuals struggling with addiction?

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