WE URGE YOU TOO LISTEN EARL
It is no secret that drug abuse in the state of West Virginia ranks high nationally. Prescription pills and other drugs have caused major problems in the state. But thanks to the Suboxone programs ran across the entire state, many have found the help that they need. However, due to a new law signed by West Virginia Earl Ray Tomblin, many patients of these programs now face a new road of the unknown.
On September 1st, it became illegal for any doctor in the state of West Virginia to prescribe suboxone tablets. The law does allow suboxone film to be written, but some patients have trouble taking the suboxone film. With some, the suboxone film causes severe stomach pain, migraines, chest pain, breathing problems, and swelling of the throat.
Many doctors across the state didn't believe that this law was right because it leaves the patients without any options if they can't take the suboxone film. Now, many suboxone patients find themselves wondering where they will now turn. Without the suboxone tablets, many have no other options but to turn to other medications to help with drug addiction.
One option that patients do have is to turn to methadone. But being where many of us are in our current program, we know that this is not an option for us. Methadone is dangerous and it ruins lives. Suboxone is a much safer and more effective drug then methadone. But in the end, what other choice does others have?
Governor Tomblin, we understand why you sign such a bill and your action behind it is very understandable. However, for those who don't follow the program in the proper manner, the suboxone film will be abused just as much. I fear many suboxone patients will turn to harder drugs and that is not good for anyone. It is hard to see someone physically hurt because of the film and talk about giving up after so many years of sobriety. At the least, those that can't take the film should have the option to take the tablets or another form of suboxone that is available.
Many of us hope that you will take another look at this law. I believe that our doctors should be able to voice their opinions being that they have the proper knowledge that is required to make such decisions. We ask for the right for choice, something that every citizen of this beautiful state deserves. As an addict, life is already hard enough. When someone has to choose between pain and sobriety, it just isn't right.
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