Prescription Drugs Right Behind Marijuana
as the Most Abused Drugs

In 2006 nearly three quarters of a million people were rushed to the emergency room as a result of prescription drug abuse. These drugs, although perceived as generally safe are lethal, addictive and they are a growing concern, especially among children.

The problem is how easy they are to obtain. So easy in fact, that your very own bathroom cabinet may be the source of a druggies stash. Painkillers such as OxyContin and Vicodin and anti-depressants such as Valium and Xanas are said to be the most commonly abused prescription drugs.

“Parents need to know that many young people are taking prescription drugs from the medicine cabinets,” says Dr. Angela Gardner, president of the American College of Emergency Physicians.

How you can limit prescription drug abuse at home:

• Keep prescription drugs in a safe place that children cannot access.
• Know what’s in your medicine cabinet, as well as pill counts and keep a record of what you have.
• Don’t stock up on supplies, rather check in with your physician to monitor and adjust your intake. This avoids having unnecessary “leftovers” lying around.
• Stay informed about the effects your medicine could have on you and should one of your family members get hold of them.
• Never take a prescription drug that has not been prescribed for you.
• Get rid of old medicines that are no longer needed.