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Prescription Drug Abuse Research Paper

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Brandy Leyva
Mr.Wise English PO50
05/03/2015
Investigation essay

Prescription Drugs: A Growing Epidemic
Prescription drug abuse is a growing epidemic across the nation. Opioids, commonly used to relieve pain, and stimulants, commonly used to treat a medical condition known as ADHD or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, are a few prescribed medications abused by adults and adolescents nationwide. A few of the major issues related to the abuse of prescription medications include lack of education, insufficient tracking and monitoring, proper medication disposal and enforcement. Utilizing these tools in today’s medical environment may help gain control over this problem that seems to be spiraling out of control.
People who use prescription …show more content…
Many times parents do not realize that leaving prescription medication in the medicine cabinet can be an open invitation for the child to be curious and try it. Parents often think of the harm of illegal drugs and alcohol, but forget the dangers of prescription drugs. They may think prescription drugs are not as dangerous as illegal drugs (https://www.whitehouse.gov/ondcp/prescription-drug-abuse). According to DR. M. Budd Lateef, a pain specialist and founder of LockMed, “You should safeguard strong medications when they are brought into the home. You should properly dispose of prescription drugs when your treatment is complete. If you suspect any friends or family members with a prescription drug abuse problem, you should have them seek immediate professional assistance” …show more content…
This could result in endangering the life of the patient or the life of someone else. Before prescribing opioid and stimulant medications healthcare professionals should obtain proper reasoning and diagnosis for the use of these medications. Law enforcement officers and other agencies need to be further educated on prescription drug abuse. Being able to identify illegal prescribing and illegal use would help minimize misuse and

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