Oxycontin use by
12th graders is up
0
PERCENT
nationwide
in just three years.
source: Partnership for Drug-Free Kids
1 in 4 teens report having abused or misused a prescription drug at least once in their lifetime.
source: Partnership for Drug-Free Kids
Prescription drugs are now the most commonly-abused drugs among 12-13 year olds.
source: Partnership for Drug-Free Kids
95% of parents believe their child has never taken a prescription drug for a reason other than its intended use.
source: Partnership for Drug-Free Kids
2/3 of teens who abuse prescription pain relievers say that they got them from family or friends.
source: Partnership for Drug-Free Kids
4 out of 5 heroin users began first with recreational use of Rx pain relievers.
source: Partnership for Drug-Free Kids
Children who learn a lot about the risks of drugs are up to 50 percent less likely to use them. Talk to your kids about the risks of prescription drug abuse.
source: Partnership for Drug-Free Kids
Young people are especially vulnerable. Warning signs:
- Moodiness, irritability, anger, aggressive behavior
- Depression, poor personal hygiene
- Incoherence, forgetfulness, slurred speech
- Significant changes in weight
- Clumsiness, poor balance, lack of coordination
- Rapid speech, uncharacteristic talkativeness, restlessness
- Irresponsibility, recklessness, bad judgment, secrecy
- Thefts or sudden requests for money
- Change in social interactions, new friends replace old friends, fights with family members and friends, not participating in family functions
- Problems at work/school, such as decreased effort, discipline issues, poor grades, or unexplained absences
