How to Combat Prescription Drug Abuse

There are more deaths related to prescription drug than deaths related to heroin and cocaine combined. Prescription drug abuse is an epidemic that’s preventable; however, it’s easy to overlook.

To be clear, prescription drug abuse is when someone uses a prescription drug in a way that conflicts with the prescribing doctor’s recommendation. People who abuse prescription drugs can do so by taking medication that doesn’t belong to them, taking too much medication and/or combining medications.

How You’re Affected by Prescription Drug Abuse

In 2012, CNN Money estimated that the costs associated with prescription drug abuse resulted in a financial loss to insurers of $10,000 to $15,000 each time a person shopped around for a doctor that would prescribe them medication. As a result, $42 billion was the financial loss to insurers. This cost is factored into the rate you pay for your health insurance. Beyond costs, thousands of people die each year from overdoses, preventing them from being productive citizens in society.

How You Can Fight Prescription Drug Abuse

More and more prescription drug abuse is prevalent among teenagers and adults. These individuals get prescription drugs from friends and family members. Your ability to stop abuse can help you save a life, and may even help you save money.

Recognize the signs of abuse. Learn the signs of drug abuse and look for these signs in your children, family members and friends. Some common signs include:

• Mood swings
• Changes in sleeping habits
• Low energy
• Lack of personal grooming
• Weight loss or weight gain
• Outbursts

Educate and inform. Individuals you suspect have a problem with prescription drug addiction should be educated. Many people don’t understand that there is a potential risk of death when they abuse drugs. When you take the time to educate and inform, you could motivate someone to change their mind about their drug use.

Enlist the help of a professional. When you have your family member or friend’s ear, you should involve a professional. With the help of a drug counselor, a minister or other professional, you could save a life.

Prescription drug abuse is a serious condition that affects everyone. Anyone who knows someone, directly or indirectly, who is affected by this condition are obligated to take a stance against prescription drug abuse.