Young adults are reportedly turning to prescription drugs, some obtained illegally, as an alternative to alcohol for socialising. These substances, including pregabalin and beta blockers, are said to offer effects similar to alcohol without the hangover.
Matt, 22, from the north of England, stated he takes medication he buys online, which typically treats epilepsy and nerve pain, alongside a beta blocker to manage social anxiety. He claims these drugs make socialising easier and provide a 'euphoric' feeling, quieting anxious thoughts.
However, experts caution that using these drugs without medical supervision and in high doses can be dangerous and, in some cases, life-threatening. Long-term use may lead to dependency, and users have reported increased anxiety, insomnia, and suicidal thoughts when attempting to stop.
The trend is occurring as young adults increasingly move away from alcohol, with a Drinkaware survey from last year indicating that 26% of 18 to 24-year-olds in the UK do not drink alcohol, up from 7% in 2012. University College London research from last year also found that over a quarter (28%) of people in their early 20s in England report high levels of anxiety.
Deaths involving pregabalin in England and Wales rose sharply, with 2,360 mentions on drug-related poisoning death certificates between 2020 and 2024, compared to 768 between 2015 and 2019. Pregabalin was reclassified as a Class C controlled drug in England in 2019, and the UK government's independent drugs advisers are reviewing its misuse.