The Neuropsychological Effects of Pregabalin (Lyrica) and Tramadol Addiction Among Youth: A Clinical Study

This clinical study investigates the neuropsychological effects associated with addiction to Pregabalin (Lyrica) and Tramadol among young individuals.Specifically, the research examines the psychological and neurocognitive alterations observed in individuals both before and after substance dependency.The study focuses on two clinical cases selected purposively and systematically from the Addiction Treatment Department at Abu Bakr Al Razi Hospital in Annaba, Algeria.Both individuals presented with significant neuropsychological dysfunction due to excessive use of Pregabalin and Tramadol without medical oversight.The assessment tools used include the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale, Beck Depression Inventory, and a custom Pregabalin Symptom Checklist.A qualitative clinical approach was adopted to explore the underlying psychopathological manifestations and behavioral changes in the participants.The results revealed a strong association between addiction to Pregabalin and Tramadol and a wide range of neuropsychological disorders, including depression, generalized anxiety, sleep disturbances, impaired memory, social maladjustment, and neuromotor symptoms such as tremors.These dysfunctions were further linked to increased vulnerability to suicide risk, schizophrenia spectrum disorders, borderline personality disorder, and antisocial personality disorder.In conclusion, the findings underscore the thin boundary between misuse and full-blown addiction.A considerable number of users transition from therapeutic use to dependency, particularly among individuals with a pre-existing history of substance abuse.The study calls for more comprehensive clinical attention to the neuropsychological consequences of non-prescribed use of Pregabalin and Tramadol among youth.