Prescription Drug Abuse
Prescription drug abuse continues to increase with the most commonly abused medications world wide being opioids, depressants, and stimulants. In the United States Cannabis is the only illicit drug more widely used than prescription drugs. Of these drugs Vicodin is the most widely abused among 12th graders.
INDIVIDUALS AT A HIGHER RISK
Patients Young persons Unmarried Women
Older adults Health-care professionals
Older adults Health-care professionals
HOW ARE THESE DRUGS BEING OBTAINED
- Obtaining prescriptions form one or multiple physicians
- Over prescribing
- From family/friends
- Forged prescriptions
- Illegal online pharmacies
- Theft/burglary of hospitals, residences, pharmacies
OVERCOMING PRESCRIPTION DRUG ABUSE
The most effective way in overcoming the drug abuse problem is through Prevention. Many organizations offer drug prevention information and classes as well as drug take back days. Below are a few resources in the community:
- The D.A.R.E Program www.dare.org
- Westbrook Health Services Address: 2121 7th St, Parkersburg, WV 26101 Phone:(304) 485-1721
- Genesis Drug and Alcohol Recovery Program Address: 2951 Maple Ave. Zanesville, OH 4370 Phone: (740) 454-400