Prescription and over the counter (OTC) medications are too often abused by teenagers. A survey by the Partnership for a Drug-Free America found that one in 10 teenagers have tried OTC drugs from the medicine cabinet in their homes.
Clues that your child may be abusing prescription or OTC drugs:
- Visits to pro-drug Internet sites devoted getting and abusing prescription and OTC drugs.
- Cough or cold, prescription, or unidentifiable medications among personal effects with no evidence of illness.
- Unexplained disappearance of medicines from medicine cabinet.
- Declining grades, loss of interest in hobbies, and unusual activities.
- Changes in friends, physical appearance, hygiene, and general behavior.
- Disrupted eating or sleeping patterns.
Provides information and referral services, helps educate the public, and serves as an advocate. A
confidential resource locator provides access to the services in your area.
Phone: 1 (800) 688-4232
Offers links to other websites that help with drug prevention directly in North Carolina.
Phone: (919) 990-9559
Provides a primary source of research on drug abuse and new discoveries on the effects of drug abuse. Offers information on how to prevent drug abuse and treat drug addiction. This Institute is part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and one of the National Institutes of Health.
Phone: (301) 443-1124
Information in Spanish: (240) 221-4007
Provides a variety of resources and information related to substance abuse and mental health.
24 Hour Treatment Referral Helpline: 1 (800) 662-HELP, 1 (800) 662-4357
Offers comprehensive information, resources and tips from experts and other parents; opportunities to connect and share experiences with other families.
Parents Toll-Free Helpline: 1 (855) DRUGFREE, 1 (855)378-4373)