Drugs can help. Drugs can harm.

Prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs are generally safe and effective. But consumers of all ages need to know more about the drugs they’re putting into their bodies. If incorrectly used or abused, “good” drugs can be harmful and sometimes even fatal.

Many older Americans confuse medications and dosages, or take someone else’s drugs and suffer drug interactions and injury. In recent years, serious adverse drug events have doubled, while fatal drug events have almost tripled. Watch “Senior Stories.”

Long-term use of prescription painkillers and anti-anxiety drugs can be more addictive than heroin. Watch “Julie’s Story.” Learn why prescription and OTC drugs are becoming the new “gateway” drugs being abused by teens. Watch “Katie’s Story.”