What are they? For medical use, physicians prescribe medicine to patients to relieve or soothe pain and to treat diseases, illness, or injuries. The Scoop on Prescriptions

• More than half of all prescriptions are abused by combining them with other drugs, purchasing someone else's prescription,  taking larger-than-reccomended doses, or not following the directions on prescription labels.
• Prescription drugs can cause deaths and injuries when abused.
• 1 out 4 adults over the age of 60 use four or more prescription drugs at the same time.

Tips on Using Prescriptions

• Never use someone else's medications.
• Always take the prescribed dosage and follow the dosage schedule as strictly as possible.
• If taking more than one drug, keep track of what you take.
• When your doctor prescribes a new medication, tell him/her what other medicines you are taking including those prescribed by another doctor, and those you take over-the-counter.
• Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about possible side effects, dietary restructions, and drug interaction precautions.
• Get rid of old prescriptions- many drugs becomoe ineffective after time.
• If you notice any unusual reactions when taking prescriptions, notify your physician
• When your doctor prescribes a medicine, it is recommended that you ask the following questions:
  • What is the name of the medication?
  • What is it supposed to do?
  • Are there any potnetial side effects?
  • What should I do if side effects occur?
  • Are there any foods or drinks I should avoid while taking the medication?
  • Is there any literature (a pamphlet, article, etc.) available about the medication?

How do I know if I have a problem with prescription drugs?

• Do you take more medication than prescribed by your doctor?
• Is it difficult to cope without taking a pill?
• Is work, school, family, or hobbies adversely affected by your use of prescription drugs?
• Do you use a combination of drugs to acheive certain moods?
• Are you spending an increasing time planning how you can use again?

If you feel you could use some help regarding your use of prescription drugs, talk to your doctor or pharmacist, or see our page on resources for additional information.  

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Sources: 1.  Prescription Drug Abuse.  Performance Resource Press, Inc.  Troy, Michigan.