Prescription Drugs And Youth

Prescription drugs can be helpful when used appropriately. When not used as intended, or when used by individuals not prescribed the medication, prescription drugs are harmful.

The abuse of prescription drugs is an increasing issue for youth in this province. The 1996 Newfoundland and Labrador Student Drug Use Survey (SDUS), administered to students in grades 7, 9, 10, and 12, reports that 5.1% of students have experimented with stimulants physicians did not prescribe for them, over 4% have used non-prescribed tranquillizers, and 2.1% have tried non-prescribed barbiturates.

In recent years, addictions counsellors, police, and school personnel, have reported their concern over an increase in youth prescription drug abuse.

Many harmful side effects may occur when taking non-prescribed drugs. Regular use may lead to physical and psychological dependence. High doses of barbiturates, for example, can result in death due to respiratory arrest. Mixing prescription drugs with alcohol can be lethal.

Prescribed drugs encompass a wide range of categories including Barbiturates (Seconal), Benzodiazepine (Ativan), Stimulants (Ritalin and Amphetamines), and Opiates (Codeine and Morphine).

• Availability ~ In the last number of years, there has been an increase in the number of prescription drugs available on the street. There are reports of prescription drugs being sold in school yards and at recreational facilities.
• Accessability ~ Youth are reporting easy access to a variety of prescription drugs.
• Peer Pressure ~ The misuse and abuse of non-prescribed prescription drugs is becoming more acceptable within youth circles.
• Adult Behavior ~ Youth model the behavior and attitudes they observe.
• Family problems ~ Youth often turn to substances to cope with stresses in their family.

Prescription Drugs and the Law
The Controlled Drugs and Substances Act states that in some cases it is illegal to possess prescription drugs without a physicians authorization. Obtaining prescription drugs containing a narcotic, without advising the physician that you have received a similar prescription within the last thirty days, is called Double-Doctoring. If convicted of this illegal activity, sentencing may include imprisonment.

• As a parent we can ensure that all prescription drugs are used and stored appropriately.
• As a community we can inform the police of any suspicious activity.
• As a school we can educate our students about the dangers of prescription drug abuse. As well, we can establish policies to help eliminate the buying and selling of prescription drugs on school property.
• As students we can become aware of the dangers of prescription drug misuse and make the use of such substances unacceptable.

Activities
The following activities are suggested as ways to increase awareness around this issue:

1. Develop a display on the dangers of prescription drug misuse and abuse
2. Organize an "open-line" show to provide students with the opportunity to share their views on the prescription drug issue
3. Discuss the issues around prescription drug misuse and how you as a group can help alleviate the problem
4. Invite the RNC or RCMP, Addictions Services Staff or a Pharmacist in to discuss the issues around youth and prescription drug abuse
5. Show videos depicting teen prescription drug abuse issues. Videos are available by contacting the Addiction Services Office nearest you.

Help is Available
If you or someone you know is involved in prescription drug misuse or abuse, help is available. Talk to an Addictions Counselor, the School Guidance Counselor, the Police, or a close friend.