I was concerned to read no mention of the abuse potential or diversion potential of the GABAnergic drugs. Myself and my colleagues have been increasingly concerned about such drugs being prescribed to patients with current or a history of alcohol/drug dependence, particularly pregabalin which has been implicated in deaths in the area.
Illicit pregabalin is increasingly becoming part of the repertoire of our poly drug using patients and we would strongly recommend avoiding prescribing it or gabapentin to anyone in alcohol/drug treatment or who has had contact with such services.
We are also aware of its potential to lead to dependence and a advise all patients be counselled about this and steps taken to act quickly if this became apparent (closely monitoring repeat scripts, offering short scripts)
I also note the close affiliation the authors had with the pharmaceutical industry.
Rapid Response:
Re: Drugs for neuropathic pain
I was concerned to read no mention of the abuse potential or diversion potential of the GABAnergic drugs. Myself and my colleagues have been increasingly concerned about such drugs being prescribed to patients with current or a history of alcohol/drug dependence, particularly pregabalin which has been implicated in deaths in the area.
Illicit pregabalin is increasingly becoming part of the repertoire of our poly drug using patients and we would strongly recommend avoiding prescribing it or gabapentin to anyone in alcohol/drug treatment or who has had contact with such services.
We are also aware of its potential to lead to dependence and a advise all patients be counselled about this and steps taken to act quickly if this became apparent (closely monitoring repeat scripts, offering short scripts)
I also note the close affiliation the authors had with the pharmaceutical industry.
Dr Alun George
Competing interests: No competing interests