Prescription Drug Abuse

Although most people take prescription medication responsibly, there has  been an increase in the non-medical use/abuse seen in the US. Prescription drugs are being abused or used for non medical purposes by people of all ages. Prescription drugs that are abused can alter brain activity and lead to dependence. The most commonly abused drugs are opioids (prescribed to treat pain), central nervous system depressants (prescribed to treat anxiety and sleep disorders) and stimulants (prescribed to treat ADHD and obesity). Abuse of prescription drugs can lead to addiction and alter the brains activity level.

Prescription drug abusers sometimes disrupt the time release formula to speed up absorption by chewing the tablets, crushing them and snorting the power, or dissolving them in water and injecting the drugs to get a fast high.

Only use prescription medication that is yours and:

• Follow the directions carefully.
• Don't increase or decrease the doses without talking with your health care provider.
• Don't stop taking medication without consulting with your health care provider.
• Don't crush or break pills.
• Be clear on the drug's effects on your driving ability and other daily tasks.
• Inform your health care provider if you have a history of substance abuse.
• Don't use other people's prescription medications and don't share yours with others.

For more information on prescription drug use you can contact:

• Health Promotions- call 580-5684, email jmcdonal@skidmore.edu, or stop by the office on the first floor of Wiecking Hall
• Student Health Services- call 580-5550, email health@skidmore.edu, or stop by the office on the first floor of Jonsson Tower
• The Counseling Center- call 580-5555, or stop by the office on the first floor of Jonsson Tower