For Teens

Pharming   --  Pharming or prescription drug abuse is a growing trend among teens. Because prescription drugs are prescribed by a health care provider and easy to access, about one in three teens falsely think they are a safe way to get high. Prescription pain medications are addictive because they impact the same areas of the brain as heroin.

Why Do Teens Abuse Prescription Pain Medicine?

• Some people use prescription pain medicine because they think they will help them have more fun or fit in.
• Prescription drugs can be easier to get than street drugs. Family members or friends could have a prescription.
• Some kids believe that prescription drugs are safer and less addictive than street drugs. Prescription drugs are only safe for those who use them as directed.
• They think they're not doing anything illegal because these drugs are prescribed by doctors. But taking drugs without a prescription or sharing a prescription drug with friends is actually breaking the law.

What Are the Dangers of Abusing Prescription Pain Medicine?

• Using prescription drugs for the wrong reasons has serious health consequences. This risk is even higher when prescription pain medications are taken with other substances like alcohol, antihistamines, and depressants.
• Prescription drug abusers often have trouble at school, at home, with friends, or with the law.
• The most common result of prescription drug abuse is addiction. People who abuse prescription pain medicine can become addicted just as easily as if they were taking street drugs.