Song meaning of Medication by Garbage

The lyrics of the song "Medication" by Garbage convey a message of frustration and feeling trapped in a toxic situation. The opening verse suggests that the narrator has gained all their knowledge and experience from a particular person, but that person has also led them to a point of imbalance. The mention of medication implies a need to numb their emotions or control their temper, indicating an unhealthy dependence on external substances or influences.

The chorus reflects the narrator's desperation and feeling of isolation, as they tear at themselves and express the belief that nobody cares about them or anyone else. This suggests a sense of alienation and a lack of support or understanding from their surroundings.

In the second verse, the narrator further expresses exhaustion and a longing for acknowledgment from someone close to them. They mention being self-defending, revealing a defensive mindset that arises from being constantly let down. The force they can't contain could refer to their intense emotions or frustrations.

The bridge indicates that someone in their life labels them as co-dependent, shifting the blame onto the narrator. This could suggest gaslighting or manipulation, causing the narrator to question their own sanity and feel guilty for their emotions.

The second chorus emphasizes the narrator's need to break free from their current situation. They recognize the importance of asserting themselves and extricating from toxic dynamics.

The song concludes with the repetition of the blame being laid on the narrator despite their efforts. Overall, "Medication" portrays the exhausting and suffocating experience of being trapped in a toxic relationship or environment, while also highlighting the struggle to assert oneself and break free from the cycle of blame and dependency.