What Is Prescription Drug Abuse?
Prescription drug abuse occurs when someone: *Takes medication without a doctor’s prescription
*Uses higher doses than recommended
*Uses the drug for recreational purposes or to get “high”
*Shares or sells prescription medications
Even drugs prescribed for legitimate medical reasons can become dangerous when misused.
Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs
1. Painkillers (Opioids) – e.g., Tramadol, Oxycodone
*Highly addictive
*Can slow breathing, cause organ damage, or lead to overdose
2.Sedatives and Anti-Anxiety Medications – e.g., Diazepam, Xanax
*Cause drowsiness and confusion
*Can impair judgment and increase risk of accidents
3. Stimulants – e.g., Ritalin, Adderall
*Misused to stay awake or enhance focus
*Can increase heart rate, anxiety, and risk of heart problems
Why Prescription Drugs Are Dangerous
*They can create dependency quickly, even if used a few times.
*Misuse alters brain chemistry, increasing cravings and addiction risk.
*Overdose can happen accidentally because some prescription drugs are very potent.
*Long-term abuse can damage heart, liver, kidneys, and brain.
How to Prevent Prescription Drug Abuse
KODA recommends:
*Always follow your doctor’s instructions when taking medication.
*Never share medications with friends or family. *Store medications safely and dispose of expired drugs responsibly.
*Educate youths about the risks of misuse.
*Seek professional help immediately if you suspect dependency.
The KODA Message
Prescription drugs are tools for healing, not recreation. Misusing them is a silent path to addiction that can ruin lives.
At KODA, we emphasize:
Prevention through awareness, safe use, and community support saves lives.
