Facts/What You Should Know

Group of four teenagers from backPrescription drug abuse is more common than you think. In fact, prescription drug abuse is the fastest-growing drug problem in the United States.

  • Most of the prescription drugs abused by teens come from family medicine cabinets and from friends.
  • 1 out of 4 teens have used prescription drugs without a prescription before age 15.
  • 4 out of 10 teens believe that using prescription medications without a doctor’s prescription is not dangerous.

In Vermont and New Hampshire:

  • Regional YRBS data suggests that schools in Grafton, Sullivan, and Windsor Counties, 5%-12% of high school students report misusing prescription medications in the past 30 days.
  • 30-40% of high school students in the above counties think it is not dangerous if someone their age uses prescription medication without a prescription.

Nationally 50% or more high school age youth think that getting medication [not prescribed to them] from a family member is OK.

Resources:

Drug Free NH

Prevent Prescription Abuse

The Medicine Abuse Project

Dispose My Meds

NH Government for Medication Safety

Prescription Safety Matters

Above the Influence

Use Only As Directed

NH Department of Environmental Services

VT Department of Health Agency of Human Services