It’s about safe use, misuse and abuse.
Prescription and over-the-counter medicines (OTC) have never been more plentiful – or confusing. Americans have billions of prescriptions filled every year, and take billions more OTC drugs and supplements.
More and more young people are abusing easily available prescription drugs, as well as OTC medications like cough syrup (1 in 5 have abused painkillers; 1 in 10 cough medicine).
Drugs are powerful chemicals that have to be treated with respect. Educate yourself and your children about the promise and peril of all drugs.
Featured Contributors: American Medical Association, The Partnership for a Drug-Free America, Rush University Medical Center
Topic Videos: Drug Safety
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What Is It? Prescription and over-the-counter drugs are everywhere. And so are the risks of accidental overdose and addiction. Watch -
Katie’s Story Katie thought the pills were safe because they came from the medicine cabinet. Then she got addicted. Watch -
Why Does It Matter? Accidental overdose and prescription drug misuse are on the rise. Prescription drugs are accessible; they're also dangerous. Watch -
Julie’s Story Julie got addicted to painkillers. Now she is a lot more cautious with them. Watch -
What Can I Do About It? Be aware. Understand possible side effects. Ask questions and ask for help. Watch -
Senior Stories Taking a lot of different drugs can get confusing, and medicine can interact with each other. And that can be dangerous. Watch
