Young adults are increasingly using prescription medications such as pregabalin and beta blockers as alternatives to alcohol during social events. Reports indicate that some individuals purchase these drugs illegally online to achieve a state of euphoria or to manage social anxiety without the physical side effects associated with alcohol consumption. While some users characterize these substances as a healthier choice, medical experts warn that unmonitored use at high doses can lead to dependency and life-threatening complications.
The shift in behavior coincides with a broader decline in alcohol consumption among young adults, often referred to as "Generation Z." A survey by the charity Drinkaware found that 26% of 18-to-24-year-olds in the UK did not drink alcohol in 2023, up from 7% in 2012. Additionally, a study by University College London reported that 28% of people in their early 20s in England experience high levels of anxiety, a rate higher than that found in previous generations at the same age.
Users interviewed by the BBC described a practice known as "stacking," where multiple medications are combined to enhance social confidence. One individual, a 22-year-old warehouse worker, stated he spends as little as 18p (approximately $0.23) per night on these substances, compared to the higher cost and caloric intake of alcohol. However, data from the Office for National Statistics show that pregabalin was mentioned in 2,360 death certificates for drug-related poisonings in England and Wales between 2020 and 2024, a significant increase from the 768 mentions recorded between 2015 and 2019.
A person using these medications recreationally may notice a temporary reduction in social inhibition and physical anxiety symptoms, but they also face a risk of developing a physical or psychological reliance. Psychologists warn that replacing social skills with chemical aids can lead to a cycle where individuals feel unable to perform daily tasks—such as attending work meetings or family gatherings—without the drugs. Those attempting to stop use have reported experiencing insomnia, increased anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. These knock-on effects can lead to long-term mental health challenges and an increased burden on addiction recovery services and emergency medical systems.
In response to rising misuse, governments are implementing stricter regulations. In 2019, the UK reclassified pregabalin as a Class C controlled drug, meaning possession without a prescription can result in legal penalties. Earlier this year, the Chinese government banned most online sales of the drug and set manufacturing limits. Future policy may be shaped by an ongoing review by the UK government's independent drug advisers. As social media influencers continue to discuss "stacking" techniques, public health officials are monitoring whether these digital trends will lead to further increases in illicit demand and related health emergencies.