Depressive disorder caused by Lyrica?

[Rafterman]

InvisibleJungle....Thank you, so very much. for your input. It is exactly what I was looking for and is very helpful to me. One of the most interesting things you said is that both N and L block substance P. I am familiar with how sub P works and how we depressed types usually have such high levels that it increases our sensitivity to pain stimuli. This would mean that both N and L would be extra effective against pain in a depressed person, versus pain in the general population. I had heard this in theory, but your post confirmed it. Also, I really appreciate you sharing your first hand details. Much respect and thanks.

Glad to help. If you decide to try it, I hope it works out!

By the way, even though Neurontin and Lyrica are nearly identical molecules, they do feel somewhat different. So if one doesn't work, it might be worth trying the other. Lyrica is definitely stronger. For me, it feels about 4x stronger than Neurontin. (I would take 1200 mg Neurontin but only 300 mg Lyrica for similar effects.)

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Thanks, this is really interesting because I'm on gabapentin (Neurontin) for idiopathic neuropathy. I've not had too much trouble with gabapentin, but I certainly see the potential for depression with these gabagenic meds. I am also prescribed tramadol, which for me is a functional antidepressant. In my case it is helpful, but it makes it harder to tell the effects of gabapentin.

We are going to see a lot more Lyrica and Neurontin in years to come. The pharma companies (Pfizer) are now promoting them as a treatment for anxiety, and I think that will be big. In the UK the NHS has started suggesting doctors use gabapentin for anxiety. But as with benzos in the past the addictive side is not something most doctors know about. I'm reducing my gabapentin down but my doctor was clueless. I ended up suggesting a taper schedule (a bit like one for benzos - nice and slow). There is also the abuse potential - although I don't understand the appeal!

I agree that L+N could become the new benzos, prescribed for everything while clueless doctors have no idea about the addiction potential and withdrawal problems. If you browse the drug forums, there are people who take 10 grams of Neurontin for fun! 

Hey Invisible, thanks again for your continuing great advice and thank you for getting specific on the dosing. Much appreciated.