Prescription Drug Abuse

After marijuana and alcohol, prescription drugs are the most commonly misused substances by youth and adults over the age of 14.
Taking prescription medication that is not prescribed can have serious consequences including unintentional overdose leading to coma, brain damage or death.
One study found that 53% of people over age 12 who got prescription pain medication for nonmedical use got it from a friend or relative.
Teens and young adults may also misuse stimulants meant to help control Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD) to prepare for an important test.

Dispose of unused medications promptly. Use the drop box in the Oregon Police Department lobby or go to our Request for Resources form to ask for an at-home disposal kit.

If your child’s doctor or dentist prescribes an opioid following surgery or injury, talk to your child about the risks of misusing the medication.

Make sure your youth has an “exit plan” if they are offered prescription pain medications or other drugs. Have them practice with you!
Learn more about how fentanyl can masquerade as other drugs at the DEA’s One Pill Can Kill website. https://www.dea.gov/onepill

After marijuana and alcohol, prescription drugs are the most commonly misused substances by youth and adults over the age of 14.
Taking prescription medication that is not prescribed can have serious consequences including unintentional overdose leading to coma, brain damage or death.
One study found that 53% of people over age 12 who got prescription pain medication for nonmedical use got it from a friend or relative.
Teens and young adults may also misuse stimulants meant to help control Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD) to prepare for an important test.

Dispose of unused medications promptly. Use the drop box in the Oregon Police Department lobby or go to our Request for Resources form to ask for an at-home disposal kit.

If your child’s doctor or dentist prescribes an opioid following surgery or injury, talk to your child about the risks of misusing the medication.

Make sure your youth has an “exit plan” if they are offered prescription pain medications or other drugs. Have them practice with you!
Learn more about how fentanyl can masquerade as other drugs at the DEA’s One Pill Can Kill website. https://www.dea.gov/onepill