The Encyclopedia Britannica defines prescription drug abuse as “the excessive, maladaptive, or addictive use for nonmedical purposes despite social, psychological, and physical problems that may arise from such use”. Prescription drug abuse has been a trend on the rise for over a decade now. Although adolescents and college students view prescription drugs as “safer “and “more acceptable”, the younger generation needs proper education on the danger and effects that can occur when misused. Through tighter regulations and being more informed we might be able to cut the number of adolescents who may fall victim to these “harmless” drugs.
According to Beth Jones, Ph D in her article "Preventing Prescription Drug Abuse in Adolescence: A Collaborative Approach” found in The Prevention Researcher: “the abuse of prescription drugs by adolescents has increased dramatically” (13). These young adults and teenagers do not even have to leave their own home to abuse any prescribed drugs. All they have to do is look into the nearest medicine cabinet and “shop”. Exposure at home is the most form of voluntary exposure; while, exposure at another person’s residence is the second. Sadly, the younger people who are abusing these prescriptions are known as “Generation Rx” (Toriello 822). The …show more content…
Although the abuse of prescription stimulants is fairly common the abuse of opioids like Oxycontin and Vicodin are mistaken to induce a relaxed, mellow, or calm like state. Abusing and misusing prescription drugs can lead to addiction just like any other “street” drug. Abusing certain prescriptions can actually lead to using “harder” illegal drugs; one example is people who abuse Oxycontin after a lengthy time of abuse turn to heroin to support or even exceed the high they
According to Beth Jones, Ph D in her article "Preventing Prescription Drug Abuse in Adolescence: A Collaborative Approach” found in The Prevention Researcher: “the abuse of prescription drugs by adolescents has increased dramatically” (13). These young adults and teenagers do not even have to leave their own home to abuse any prescribed drugs. All they have to do is look into the nearest medicine cabinet and “shop”. Exposure at home is the most form of voluntary exposure; while, exposure at another person’s residence is the second. Sadly, the younger people who are abusing these prescriptions are known as “Generation Rx” (Toriello 822). The …show more content…
Although the abuse of prescription stimulants is fairly common the abuse of opioids like Oxycontin and Vicodin are mistaken to induce a relaxed, mellow, or calm like state. Abusing and misusing prescription drugs can lead to addiction just like any other “street” drug. Abusing certain prescriptions can actually lead to using “harder” illegal drugs; one example is people who abuse Oxycontin after a lengthy time of abuse turn to heroin to support or even exceed the high they