On March 30th, 2021, my daughter, Madisyn Solomon, picked up a pregabalin prescription from Shoppers Drug Mart in Canada. Nowhere in the paperwork provided with her medication were there warnings about potential side effects such as suicidal ideation, hallucinogenic effects, or the risk of addiction. Tragically, Madisyn passed away by suicide on April 13th, 2021, leaving our family devastated and searching for answers and accountability.

Pregabalin is a commonly prescribed medication for conditions such as epilepsy, neuropathic pain, and generalized anxiety disorder. While it can provide relief for many, it is crucial that patients and their families are fully informed about the potential risks involved with its use. Research indicates that medications like pregabalin can lead to severe side effects, including an increased risk of suicidal thoughts. The inclusion of clear and visible warnings about these effects is essential for patient safety.

Statistics from Health Canada highlight a growing concern. Reports have shown that pregabalin is associated with an increased risk of suicidal behavior, and patients should be made aware of these risks upfront. Moreover, the potential for hallucinogenic experiences and the risks of dependency or abuse underline the need for comprehensive information.

We urge Health Canada to mandate that pharmacies provide detailed patient information sheets with every pregabalin prescription. These sheets should explicitly include warnings about suicidal ideation, hallucinogenic effects, and addiction risks. By taking this step, we can help prevent further tragedies and ensure that patients and their families are making informed decisions about their treatment options.

Your support can make a difference. By signing this petition, you are advocating for crucial changes that can protect countless individuals and families from preventable harm. Let us raise our voices to ensure that what happened to Madisyn does not happen to anyone else. Please sign and share this petition to demand action from Health Canada and safeguard the well-being of all Canadians.