Abuse of Non-Prescribed Medication
http://www.healthmedicalresources.com/articles/445/1/Abuse-of-Non-Prescribed-Medication/Page1.html
Mike Hughes
By Mike Hughes
Published on March 7th, 2009
One of the main concerns among parents, teachers and health providers
is the drug abuse among teens. According to a survey conducted by the
University of Michigan, revealed that there is a decrease in the use of
marijuana and cigarettes, but a startling increase in the illegal use
of prescription pain medications.
One of the main concerns among parents, teachers and health providers is the drug abuse among teens. According to a survey conducted by the University of Michigan, revealed that there is a decrease in the use of marijuana and cigarettes, but a startling increase in the illegal use of prescription pain medications. The study also showed an increase in the excessive use of opioids like oxycodone (OxyContin) and hydrocodone (Vicodin).
The overall report indicated that illicit drug use like marijuana declined, but the use of prescription painkillers has increased. Therefore, it has become extremely important to keep all prescription pain medicine in a safe and secure place.
As per a 2005 report, about 10% of 12th grade students reported using hydrocodone or oxycodone for illicit purposes, to say the least it's disturbing. Apart from the problem of narcotic painkillers, the non-prescribed use of combination medications can cause liver toxicity.
Hence, it is the responsibility of the parents to encourage teens to remain drug-free by discussing the severe consequences of drug use. They should also learn the warning signs of substance abuse. Make sure your kids don't feel uncomfortable while talking to them on this topic. If possible get to know your kid's friends and if they have a propensity of drug abuse. They should also restrict access to pain medication and store them safely in the home. If there is any prescribed drugs in your home that are not being used, it might be wise to discard them.
The overall report indicated that illicit drug use like marijuana declined, but the use of prescription painkillers has increased. Therefore, it has become extremely important to keep all prescription pain medicine in a safe and secure place.
As per a 2005 report, about 10% of 12th grade students reported using hydrocodone or oxycodone for illicit purposes, to say the least it's disturbing. Apart from the problem of narcotic painkillers, the non-prescribed use of combination medications can cause liver toxicity.
Hence, it is the responsibility of the parents to encourage teens to remain drug-free by discussing the severe consequences of drug use. They should also learn the warning signs of substance abuse. Make sure your kids don't feel uncomfortable while talking to them on this topic. If possible get to know your kid's friends and if they have a propensity of drug abuse. They should also restrict access to pain medication and store them safely in the home. If there is any prescribed drugs in your home that are not being used, it might be wise to discard them.