Drug Awareness Information

Drugs come in all shapes, sizes, colors and forms and are easier to obtain than you might think. Even everyday items in your home are subject to abuse. Stay informed about available drugs and recognize signs of use to prevent or identify abuse.

Early Drug Abuse

• Prescription pain medicines, such as oxycodone and hydrocodone, have a strong potential for abuse due to the feeling of euphoria produced by these painkillers. Over two million teens abused prescription drugs in 2008, according to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Abuse of inhalants is another common epidemic in which household chemicals are inhaled from a towel or bag to create a high. One out of five children has abused inhalants by the eighth grade.

Signs of Abuse

• Besides actually discovering drugs or paraphernalia, there are several warning signs that may indicate drug abuse. Teens that huff may act drunk, smell of chemicals and develop rashes around their nose and mouth. Abuse of prescription drugs can cause severe mood changes and a noticeable change in energy as in drowsiness or hyperactivity. Irritability, depression, vomiting and loss of appetite also may accompany drug use.

Risks

• The consequences of abusing seemingly harmless substances can be serious and include liver damage, respiratory depression and cardiac arrest. Overdose is a possible risk and could result in death, even for first time users.