- By David Wilson & Mike McBride
- BBC NewsNI
image source, Getty Images
The prescription drug pregabalin is associated with increased deaths in Northern Ireland.
But what is it and why is it deadly?
Here we answer some frequently asked questions about this drug that continues to make headlines.
What is pregabalin?
Pregabalin, also known by the trade name Lyrica or by the common name Bud, is an antiepileptic drug that is also used to relieve chronic pain.
The drug comes in several dosage forms, including capsules, oral liquids, and long-acting tablets.
This is a prescription only medicine and should only be taken under the supervision of a doctor.
What effect does pregabalin have on the body?
Drug information service Talk to Frank says that pregabalin can make you feel “uplifted, relaxed and calm.”
Side effects include dizziness, uncontrollable shaking, forgetfulness, difficulty speaking, blurred vision, shortness of breath, and chest pain.
Pregabalin is safe when prescribed and taken under the supervision of a doctor, but can be very dangerous when taken for recreational purposes, said Londonderry Grand Prix Dr Joe McEvoy.
That’s partly because people who buy the drug on the street or online “don’t know what they’re getting,” he added.
Combining pregabalin with opioids such as heroin is particularly dangerous
“They may be taking pregabalin, and they may be taking doses many times higher than expected.
“This drug is a very dangerous drug if used in the wrong dose, by the wrong person, or mixed with other drugs in a way that you cannot really predict what the results will be.”
Some people combine pregabalin with opioids (such as heroin) for recreational purposes, but medical experts warn that the combination can cause breathing difficulties, serious heart failure and even death. are doing.
How many deaths occur each year?
According to the Northern Ireland Statistical and Research Agency (NISRA), pregabalin-related drug-related deaths have increased in recent years.
The number of annual deaths associated with this controlled substance has increased from 1 in 2013 and 9 in 2016 to a peak of 77 in 2019 and 71 in 2021.
Can you become addicted to pregabalin?
As with most drugs, a significant danger of pregabalin abuse is addiction.
The calming effects of pregabalin may be supportive for users.
The drug can cause what is known as a “mild high”, and as a result, users tend to underestimate the drug’s addictiveness over time.
Dependence on pregabalin is of particular concern for those with a history of substance abuse or addiction.
Where do drugs come from?
An illegal market for the drug exists in Northern Ireland, with many people buying the drug online from unregulated websites.
It is understood that pregabalin, like other prescription drugs, has entered Northern Ireland at fairly constant levels over the years.
Is pregabalin a controlled substance?
The Abuse of Substances Act 1971 divides drugs into three categories, Classes A, B and C, according to the harm they cause to the user or society if abused.
In 2019, pregabalin became a Class C drug, making it illegal to possess or supply to others without a valid prescription.
Northern Ireland Police announced 804 seizures of pregabalin by officers between July 2021 and June 2022.
Statistics from the Police Service for Northern Ireland (PSNI) show that pregabalin is the fourth most commonly seized drug after cannabis, cocaine and benzodiazepines.
According to official police statistics, between July 2021 and June 2022, 804 cases of pregabalin were seized by police officers.
In the 12 months from July 2022 to June this year, that number increased to 1,081, an increase of more than 34%.
What kind of support do you have?
If you are affected by addiction, help and support is available on the BBC Action Line.
If you live in Northern Ireland, you can also call us. life line24-hour helpline (0808 808 8000).
Tommy Canning, director of the Northland Addiction Treatment Center in Delhi, said it can be difficult for clients’ families.
“Families often find that no matter what they seem to be doing, when a son or daughter is unaware or unwilling to accept the problems they have, the support of those around them is often the answer to their needs. You may feel helpless because you are unable to fulfill your
“There are people who come to us all the time and say, ‘We just want our old daughters and old fathers back,’ because fundamentally, they’ve changed in the addiction process.” Because it’s gone.”
