Preventing Prescription Drug Misuse

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What is prescription drug misuse?

Prescription drugs (Rx) are medications prescribed by authorized medical personnel. Prescription drug misuse means taking a prescription drug that is not prescribed for you or taking it for reasons or in dosages other than as prescribed.

What are the most misused prescription drugs?

  1. Opioids - usually prescribed for pain and include Vicodin, OxyContin, Darvon, Dilaudid, Demerol and Lomotil
  2. Central Nervous System Depressants - usually prescribed for anxiety and sleep disorders and include Nembutal, Valium and Xanax
  3. Stimulants - usually prescribed for ADHD and narcolepsy and include Dexedrine, Ritalin, Adderall and Concerta

What are the negative health effects of prescription drugs?

Prescription drugs can be as dangerous as illegal drugs when not taken as directed. Those who misuse prescription drugs are at risk of adverse health effects especially when taken with other drugs or alcohol. Some health effects include:

  • Death
  • Depressed breathing
  • Seizures
  • Convulsions
  • Paranoia
  • Constipation
  • Slowed heart rate
  • Loss of appetite
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Dangerously high body temperatures
  • Insomnia
  • Anxiety
  • Hallucinations
  • Violent/erratic behavior
  • Drowsiness
  • Irritability

How can prescription drugs harm my baby during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Some medications are safe to take during pregnancy, but many can cause these harmful effects if misused:

  • Miscarriage
  • Premature birth
  • Severe birth defects
  • Fetal addiction syndrome
  • Mental or physical development challenges later in life

What are the warning signs of prescription drug misuse?

Watch for these signs. Some people do not exhibit warning signs.

  • Missing medications from family members
  • Dramatic changes in appearance
  • Dramatic changes in behavior
  • Excessive over-the-counter medicine use
  • Abrupt mood swings
  • Always looking for money
  • Continued use of the prescription drug
  • Missing valuables

How can prescription drug misuse be prevented?

  • Talk to your children about the dangers of abusing prescription drugs
  • Know your child's friends
  • Supervise your child's activities
  • Monitor prescription medication in the home
  • Lock up medications
  • Monitor where your children spend time and their surroundings
  • Properly dispose of unused and expired medications

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