Alcohol and prescription medications like Pregabalin can have serious side effects when used alone, but when combined, they create a dangerous mix. Pregabalin, sold under the brand names nervigesic and Lyrica, is a medication commonly prescribed for nerve pain, seizures, and anxiety.

When this medication is used with alcohol, the risks are magnified significantly, resulting in potentially life-threatening consequences.

In this context, we’ll explore the dangers of combining Pregabalin and alcohol so you can make the best choices for your health.

Can You Mix Pregabalin And Alcohol?

No, you should not mix alcohol and Pregabalin. Healthcare providers generally advise against the use of Nervigesic and alcohol together as it could lead to various side effects.

Pregabalin’s interaction with alcohol can interfere with the efficacy of the medication [1].

Why Do People Mix Pregabalin And Alcohol?

Many people mix alcohol and pregabalin for a variety of reasons, including to ease pain or anxiety, to increase the effects of the medication, as a form of self-medication to cope with mental health problems, or simply to enjoy the feeling.

Individuals who have been prescribed Lyrica for a prolonged duration for a condition like epilepsy may believe they have a high tolerance to the drug so that they can consume alcohol and pregabalin together safely.

Alcohol and Pregabalin may also be combined for recreational purposes. Both have a high risk of abuse and when coadministered, they can produce a potent and euphoric high [2]

The Risks Of Mixing Alcohol And  Pregabalin

Mixing alcohol and Pregabalin is dangerous because both substances depress the CNS (central nervous system), which can amplify their sedative effects. Below are some of the reasons why this combination is dangerous [3].

Respiratory depression –

One of the serious risks of mixing Pregabalin and alcohol is respiratory depression, where breathing becomes slow dangerously or even stops. This can cause coma, unconsciousness, or death.

Increased sedation –

Pregabalin and drinking alcohol can cause sleepiness and sedation. When combined, these effects are intensified, resulting in extreme sleepiness, slowed reaction times, and impaired coordination. This increases the risk of accidents and injuries.

Increased risk of overdose –

Combining these substances intensifies the likelihood of an overdose. Since both Pregabalin and alcohol affect the central nervous system, their combined impact can overwhelm the ability of the body to cope, leading to life-threatening symptoms.

Cognitive impairment –

Taking alcohol with Pregabalin can impair cognitive function significantly, leading to symptoms like memory loss, poor decision-making, and confusion. This not only impacts your ability to function in everyday life but also increases the risk of engaging in dangerous behaviors.

Heightened risk of addiction –

The euphoric effects of Pregabalin can be amplified when taken with alcohol, making the combination more addictive. This can result in abuse, where increasing amounts of both Lyrica and alcohol are required to achieve the desired effects.

Pregabalin and alcohol addiction have various treatment options, such as detox, aftercare, and rehab treatment).

Even though combining Pregabalin and alcohol has various negative effects, it is important to note that Pregabalin alone is a very effective medication. Visit our Pregabalin category page to learn about the medication in detail.

Common Myths About Mixing Pregabalin And Alcohol

Combining Pregabalin and alcohol is associated with several misconceptions and myths, which can lead to dangerous consequences. Here are some common misconceptions and the realities behind them [4].

It’s okay to drink alcohol moderately while on Pregabalin –

As mentioned already, both alcohol and Pregabalin are CNS depressants. Mixing them can enhance the sedative effects, leading to increased dizziness, drowsiness, sedative effect, and impaired coordination.

Occasionally, drinking alcohol is harmless –

Even occasional drinking while taking Lyrica can impair motor and cognitive functions significantly. The interaction can reduce your threshold for intoxication, making you more prone to accidents and injuries.

You can skip a dose of Lyrica if you want to take alcohol –

Skipping doses of Pregabalin to drink alcohol can still be risky. The drug remains in the system for some duration, and its interaction with alcohol can still have significant risk. Moreover, inconsistent use of Lyrica can cause withdrawal symptoms and reduce the effectiveness in managing the conditions it was prescribed for.

The combination is only dangerous if you drink a lot of alcohol –

The potential dangers of combining alcohol and Pregabalin do not depend on the quantity of alcohol consumed. Even small amounts can cause severe side effects, including confusion, life-threatening respiratory depression, and enhanced sedation.

Other Pregabalin Interactions

Lyrica can cause drug interaction when taken with other medications or supplements. It can interact with opioids, antihistamines, muscle relaxants, benzodiazepines, sedatives, and some blood pressure medications.

Before taking any medication or supplements while taking Pregabalin, it is advised to always ask a healthcare provider first [5].

Conclusion

While Pregabalin is a potent treatment option for nerve pain, seizure, or anxiety, combining it with alcohol can cause serious risks that should not be ignored. If you’re struggling with managing alcohol consumption while taking Pregabalin, reach out to a healthcare professional.