Victoria McCann BA, MSc

Communications Director and Editorial Lead

Victoria McCann, BA, MSc, is Communications Director & Editorial Lead at Castle Craig and a member of the clinic’s founding family. With over a decade of experience in addiction treatment communications since 2012, she leads the creation of clear, compassionate content that supports patients, families, and healthcare professionals. Victoria is committed to reducing stigma around addiction and mental health, and brings strategic insight and lived sector knowledge to her work. She regularly attends and organises addiction treatment conferences across the UK and Europe, promoting high standards of care and best practice in the field. Victoria also works with the media to raise awareness and share informed perspectives on addiction and recovery. The Herald, The Times, BBC, STV, The Times, New York Post, The Guardian.

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Mixing Pregabalin and Alcohol: Risks, Side Effects and Addiction

Mixing pregabalin and alcohol is far riskier than many people realise. Both substances depress the central nervous system, which means combining them can amplify side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, impaired coordination, and slowed breathing. In serious cases, the interaction can lead to overdose, hospitalisation, or even death. Even if you drink occasionally, it’s important […]

Pregabalin Side Effects, Dosage & Overdose

Pregabalin Side Effects Long-Term, Side Effects, Dosages & Overdose With the uses of Pregabalin expanding well beyond epilepsy treatments for many years now, addiction statistics and accidental overdoses have been on the increase for well over a decade. Described as the UK’s ‘new Valium’, Pregabalin’s ability to enhance the effects of other substances has made […]

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Pregabalin Withdrawal Symptoms, Timeline and Treatment

Successfully coming off pregabalin, a prescription drug often used for anxiety or nerve pain, can be difficult both physically and mentally. Dependence may develop gradually, and stopping suddenly can bring on distressing withdrawal symptoms. With the right support, however, safe pregabalin detox is possible, helping people regain control of their health and daily life. At […]

Ritalin Withdrawal Symptoms, Timeline and Treatment

Ritalin, the brand name for methylphenidate, is a prescription stimulant often used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. While it can be effective when taken as directed, prolonged use or misuse can lead to dependency, making the Ritalin withdrawal process challenging and potentially risky. If you or someone you care about is struggling with Ritalin addiction, […]

Ten Excuses People Use Not To Go To Rehab

1. I Can Quit Any Time on My Own – It’s Not So Difficult You’re having fun, right? It’s your choice, right? Why would you want to go to drug or alcohol rehab when you can put a stop to it when you’re good and ready? Who needs the trouble and expense? Addiction is the point you reach […]

Tramadol withdrawal symptoms, timeline and treatment

Tramadol is a prescription opioid often given for pain relief, which can lead people to believe it is safe. However, like other opioids, it can be addictive, producing feelings of relaxation, euphoria and emotional numbness. Whether obtained legally or through other means, dependence can develop quickly, sometimes even after using tramadol to overcome another substance […]

Valium withdrawal symptoms, timeline and treatment

As a prescription drug that is highly addictive, some people end up unintentionally addicted to Valium. If that’s you, you’re not alone: it’s estimated there are some 1.5 million people in the UK addicted to benzodiazepines. If you or someone you care about is addicted to Valium, you may be searching for the best ways […]

What Is Citalopram Used for and How Does It Work?

One in six adults in England is on antidepressants, which include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like citalopram. In this article, we take a look at exactly what citalopram is and how it works. We take a look at what it is used for, along with who should and shouldn’t take it. We also cover the […]

Discover the benefits of coming off sertraline

This guide looks at sertraline from both a mental health and addiction perspective. It explains how the medication works, whether it can be addictive, how it interacts with alcohol and other substances, what withdrawal symptoms can feel like, and when additional support may be helpful. We’ll cover: What Is Sertraline? You may know the medication […]

What is Trazodone Used For and How Does It Work?

If you are one of the millions of people who suffer from depression, you may have been prescribed trazodone. This medication is commonly used to treat major depressive disorder and other mental health conditions. Trazodone can be very effective in relieving symptoms. However, many people do not understand how trazodone works or why doctors prescribe it. Read […]

Can You Overdose on Xanax?

Xanax is a sedative prescribed by doctors for anxiety or muscle spasms and it is also bought illegally as a party drug. It is particularly strong and highly addictive, which means it can be easy to overdose on it. Here we explain the danger of taking too much Xanax, what to look out for if […]

Zapain Uses, Side Effects and Withdrawal Symptoms

Zapain is a prescription painkiller that combines codeine and paracetamol. It’s used to manage moderate to severe pain, but like other opioid medications, it carries risks. Many people search for answers about Zapain side effects, withdrawal symptoms and whether you can get addicted to Zapain. Common side effects include constipation, nausea, dizziness and drowsiness, while […]