26 Mar 2012

As a part of our interest in educating the next generation, here is a student’s take on prescription drug abuse:

“For a lot of average citizens, like me, prescription drugs aren’t worth that much attention. I try to avoid drugs entirely; I like my body natural. Prescription drugs are a real problem in our society, though. Everybody is aware of the problem with illegal drugs. They are dangerous and serious health risks. There are very rare cases when usually illegal drugs are used for medical purposes. There are also cases, much less rare, when prescribed drugs are used for non-medical purposes. An estimated 20% of people in the United States have used prescription drugs for non-medical reasons. In fact, excluding marijuana, prescription drugs are used to get high more than major illicit drugs (cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine) combined, according to the Center for Disease Control. 2 out of 5 teenagers think that prescription drugs are safer than illegal drugs. This is not true; all drugs can be dangerous, and all drugs can be overdosed.

“What can we do about the problem? There is actually a lot that we can do to help our friends, family and neighbors. Studies show that most abused prescription drugs are obtained by family and friends that have them at home. The Secure and Responsible Drug Disposal Act of 2010 facilitated the creation of drop-offs for prescription drugs. Over 121 tons of prescription drugs were dropped off in September 2010 from around the US. From these drop-offs, the drugs are taken to proper disposal facilities. This is better than flushing the drugs down the toilet because flushed drugs can end up in our water system. Everyone can help out by dropping off their prescription drugs in a secure facility to be disposed of safely. Let’s help address this issue!”

NARCONON SUNCOAST

DRUG EDUCATION AND REHABILITATION