Overall, teen drug abuse is down nationwide. However prescription drug abuse is rising among the youth and seems to be their most popular choice of drug next to marijuana. According to a study performed by Partnership for a Drug Free America, one in five teens has abused prescription pain medications. Also one in five teens report abusing prescription stimulants and tranquilizers. Even more alarmingly, almost all teens will tell you that they have easy access to these drugs. In the teenage community, they are regarded as being safer that a lot of other drugs and used as the alternative. However, there are high risks associated with prescription drug abuse.
Among the prescription drugs that are abused by teens, the most common are pain killers, including Oxycontin, Loritab, Percocet, Percodan, and Vicadin. Stimulants like Ritalin and Adderall, and benzodiazepines like Xanax, Valium, and Klonopin are also popular. All of these drugs physiologically alter the body’s natural ability to maintain balance and can cause adverse mental and physical health effects when abused. However, there is a growing trend in their popularity and teens are even participating in events called “pharm parties” where instead of bringing a present, they arrive with something from their parent’s medicine cabinet.
Although there are adverse health effects, and behavioral risks associated with using prescription pain killers, the most common problem is that addiction can occur. Due to the prevalence of these drugs and the fact that it is easy to use them discretely, many teens are developing dependencies. Often addiction to prescription pain medication leads to harder drug use. More than 60% of those who become addicted to Oxycontin will use the similar illicit drug, heroin, within 3 years.
Teens need to be educated about the ill effects of abusing prescription drugs. The government is cracking down on this crime with some steep penalties that may even involve punishing the parents. Store any prescription medications in a safe place, under lock. Also, be sure to talk to your kids about all drugs and keep an open line of communication.
