Abuse of prescription medication is a growing national epidemic. This growth is fueled in part by misconceptions about prescription drug safety and increased availability. Communities across the country are working to limit the misuse and illegal flow of prescription drugs. Some things people can do to help include locking up their medication, safely disposing of medications they are no longer using, using medications only as prescribed, and getting help for themselves or others if they are concerned about drug misuse or addiction.
Prescription Drug Abuse Is Preventable
By committing to a few simple practices, we can all help to reduce misuse, abuse, and overdoses related to prescription medications – better ensuring these medications are able to “Help, and not Harm.”
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- Lock Your Meds®—Be aware. Don’t share. Secure and take regular inventory of your medications to reduce the potential for misuse. Don’t be an unwitting supplier—42% of teens who have misused or abused a prescription drug obtained it from their parent’s medicine cabinet, making it important to safeguard medicine in the home.
- Dispose of unused medications. Safely disposing of unused, unwanted, or expired medications is an easy way for all community members to help reduce access to and misuse of prescription drugs. Click here for local, anonymous drop-off locations that are available 24/7.
- Use as Prescribed. Always follow the dosage instructions your healthcare provider provides when taking prescription medications. Talk to your doctor if you have questions or concerns about a new medication. Ask about non-opioid treatment options for pain management.