Here we provide information about the prescription drugs that are responsible for the majority of abuse among our youth. This contans some key references about the drugs and how to obtain more information on the Web.
National Coalition Against Prescription Drug AbusePosted on by Callie Cranfill
Stimulants Commonly prescribed stimulants: Adderall, Dexedrine, Ritalin. What are prescription stimulants? Prescription stimulants are medications which target the central nervous system and accelerate brain activity. They are typically used to increase energy and attention but also affect blood pressure, heart rate, and other bodily functions. What do they look like? Tablets and capsules. How are they used? For people with ADHD or narcolepsy, stimulants can help boost energy, attention, and alertness. They are also prescribed for asthma, obesity, and low blood pressure resulting from anesthesia. What are their short-term effects? Stimulants increase heart rate and blood pressure, open up breathing …Continue reading →
National Coalition Against Prescription Drug AbusePosted on by Callie Cranfill
Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressants Commonly prescribed CNS depressants: Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium), non-benzodiazepine sleep medications (Ambien, Lunesta, Sonata), barbiturates (Mebaral, Luminol Sodium, Nembutal). What are CNS depressants? CNS depressants, sometimes referred to as sedatives and tranquilizers, are substances that can slow brain activity. This property makes them useful for treating anxiety and sleep disorders. (NIDA) What do they look like? Multi-colored tablets and capsules; some can be in liquid form. How are they used? CNS depressants are mainly used to treat sleep and anxiety disorders. They can also be used for alcohol withdrawal, seizures, as a muscle relaxant, or to …Continue reading →
National Coalition Against Prescription Drug AbusePosted on by Callie Cranfill
Pain Relievers (Opioids) Commonly prescribed opioids: Codeine, OxyContin, Percocet, and Vicodin. What are prescription opioids? Prescription opioids are pain relievers. These medications also affect areas of the brain that control emotion, which can cause feelings of euphoria. (NIDA) What form do they come in? Tablets, capsules, transdermal patches. How are prescription opioids used? When taken as prescribed, opioids are safe and effective. They can treat moderate to severe pain and are most often needed after surgery, injury, or for conditions such as cancer. (CDC) Misuse of prescription opioids can be extremely dangerous. Misuse includes taking medication in any way other …Continue reading →