PRESCRIPTION DRUG MISUSE

PRESCRIPTION DRUG MISUSE

According to SAMHSA, prescription drug misuse is when someone who takes medication inappropriately, like without a prescription. There are many reasons students may misuse prescription drugs.

Prescription drugs can be harmful when not used correctly. Below are some of the side effects that come with misusing drugs:

• Stimulants, like those used to treat ADHD (e.g., Adderall, Ritalin, or Concerta), can lead to dangerously high body temperatures and irregular heartbeat, especially in large doses.
• Opioids, like those used to treat pain (e.g., Oxycontin, Vicodin), can lead to drowsiness, nausea, and slowed breathing.
• Depressants, like those used to treat anxiety or help with sleep (e.g., Valium, Xanax), can also cause shallow breathing, fatigue, and even seizures from withdrawal.
• The most serious consequence is overdose.

CAN YOU SPOT THE FAKE?

Fake prescription pills are easily accessible. Counterfeit pills are made to look like prescription pills, but may contain fentanyl. Fentanyl is a highly potent synthetic opioid. It's difficult to know if a pill is fake or legitimate, or if it contains fentanyl.

Below are pictures from the DEA of real and counterfeit prescription drugs. Can you spot the fake?

Images from https://www.dea.gov/onepill

WAYS TO PROTECT YOUR PRESCRIPTIONS

• Take unused or expired medications to a drug disposal box, like at the UNTPD lobby.
• Store your prescriptions in safe space.