How can the abuse of prescription drugs be stopped?

being aware of potential interactions with other drugs as well as alcohol. never stopping or changing a dosing regimen without first discussing it with the doctor. never using another person’s prescription and never giving their prescription medications to others.

Is it legal to give away prescription medication?

If a doctor prescribes a medication to a person who doesn’t require it, they are committing a crime. Even the intent of distributing prescription drugs is considered an illegal act. The amount of trouble a person can get into by sharing or giving away their prescription drugs will depend on a variety of factors.

Which describes a side effect?

In medicine, a side effect is an effect, whether therapeutic or adverse, that is secondary to the one intended; although the term is predominantly employed to describe adverse effects, it can also apply to beneficial, but unintended, consequences of the use of a drug.

Which government agency is responsible for formulating federal standards for the handling of controlled substances?

The DEA is responsible for formulating federal standards for the handling of controlled substances.

What to do if a family member is abusing prescription drugs?

If you believe that a family member or close friend is abusing prescription drugs, talk with your health care professional. Doctors can refer you to drug treatment programs for the family member or friend. Many of these programs use outpatient treatment with medications and behavioral therapy.

Is it important to prevent or stop prescription drug abuse?

Preventing or stopping prescription drug abuse is an important part of patient care. However, health care providers should not avoid prescribing painkillers, if they are needed. Was this page helpful?

How to identify and treat prescription drug abuse?

Identify prescription drug abuse when it exists. Help the patient recognize the problem. Set goals for recovery, and seek appropriate treatment when necessary. Screening for any type of substance abuse can be incorporated into routine history taking with questions about what prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs the patient is taking and why.

Is the abuse of prescription drugs a public health problem?

Although most patients use medications as directed, abuse and addiction to prescription drugs are public health problems for many Americans. However, addiction rarely occurs among those who use medications as prescribed; the risk for addiction exists when medications are used in ways other than as prescribed.

What should I do if my family member is abusing drugs?

Here, I offer 5 essential things you should do if someone in your family is abusing drugs. 1. Educate yourself about addiction. We see what we know.

Can a drug user steal from a family member?

Emotional abuse is probably more the norm than the exception, given that irritability and labile moods are common in those who are using drugs. Drug users may decide to steal to support their use, and family members often present the easiest target for theft. I have seen more than one user steal family heirlooms and sell them for drugs.

How can doctors help prevent prescription drug misuse?

By asking about all drugs, physicians can help their patients recognize whether a problem exists, provide or refer them to appropriate treatment, and set recovery goals.

How to stop a family member from enabling an addict?

9 tips for family members to stop enabling an addict 1 Gain support from peers. 2 Talk openly about the shift. 3 Work in teams. 4 Don’t make excuses or cover up the behavior. 5 Don’t buy or offer drugs or alcohol to the abuser. 6 (more items)