Addictive Actiq Lozenges Prescribed For Off-Label Use

Pete Strom

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Actiq is a drug approved for use in cancer patients who have bouts with severe pain that cannot be relieved with other pain killers. However, there is a growing trend that shows the majority of Actiq prescriptions being written are for patients who don't have cancer. The drug comes in the form of a lozenge on the end of a stick, much like a lollipop.

Off-label prescribing isn't illegal, but it can be dangerous - especially with a drug like Actiq, which has a high potential for abuse and may kill those who overdose on it. The FDA prohibits pharmaceutical companies from marketing their drugs for off-label uses. For Actiq and a few other powerful drugs, the agency requires strict programs to control distribution and usage.

Actiq contains the ingredient fentanyl, and fentanyl is up to 80 times more potent than morphine. It is highly addictive and is in the same category as cocaine and opium - meaning it has great potential for abuse and accidental overdose.