Coffin Drug Available For As Little As €1 In Ireland

A dangerous trend is gaining momentum on the streets of Ireland as a potent prescription drug known as pregabalin is being peddled under the sinister moniker of “coffin drug” for as little as €1. Originally intended to treat anxiety, epilepsy, or nerve damage, pregabalin has morphed into a highly addictive substance akin to OxyContin, with tablets increasingly popular among illicit drug users.

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MEP Barry Andrews Urges Stringent Measures Against ‘Coffin Drug’ Epidemic in Ireland

Irish MEP Barry Andrews is pushing to reclassify pregabalin as a prohibited substance under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977 due to the gravity of the situation. Citing alarming statistics from a RCSI report revealing its presence in 1 in 16 post-mortem toxicology tests, Andrews warns of the parallels to the opioid crisis devastating communities in the US.

Echoing Andrews’ concerns, the Coroners Society of Ireland urges the implementation of stricter controls to combat the proliferation of this lethal substance. Andrews emphasises the urgent need for action, emphasising the grave risks posed by pregabalin, which is often used as a mixer in drug cocktails, heightening the danger of overdose, especially considering its affordability.

Drawing parallels to the catastrophic impact of OxyContin in the US, Andrews underscores the necessity of preemptive measures to safeguard Dublin’s streets. Notably, Northern Ireland took proactive steps in 2019 by classifying pregabalin as a Class C drug, criminalising its possession, supply, or sale without a prescription.

Andrews urges households with prescriptions for pregabalin to exercise caution, highlighting the vulnerability of young people to experimentation with its effects. To stop pregabalin usage and avoid the destruction seen in other areas, immediate action is necessary. As Ireland stands at the precipice of a burgeoning crisis, swift and decisive measures must be implemented to protect its communities from the scourge of “coffin drug.”