Rx: Misconception of Prescription Pills

RX

What are the causes and effects of the misconception that prescription drugs are safer than street drugs? More people today believe that over abusing prescription drugs is “safer” way to get high. Teens now abuse prescription drugs more than any other illicit drug except Marijuana. These drugs are readily available to teens, and most parents aren’t aware of it.

Teens abuse prescription drugs because they have a misconception that they are safer. Since it’s legal drugs that come from a doctor they are unclear about what could go wrong. Prescription drugs are not safer because they are not prescribed to your body. The dangers are still there. Most teens aren’t aware of allergies to these drugs . “Other myths of prescription drugs are that there is less shame, fewer side effects, and their parents won’t be as angry if they get caught (www.theantidrug.com). “

Marketing makes prescription and OTC (over the counter) drugs look safe and glamorous. Hearsay about the drug makes them sound fun and exciting. People think they are okay to do because advertisements claim they work. False advertisement of the drug and not effectively exposing side effects allow teens to think nothing could go wrong, but most marketing agencies are not going to tell you the harm of their product. The harm is addiction, health problems, and even death.

Since the drugs are from a doctor, teens believe they cannot over dose. Horrible side effects could still damage your body that could damage your future. These drugs still could cause strong addictions and dependency, like any other illicit drug. Different major types of over abused prescription drugs are opioids, depressants, and stimulants. “Opioids slow and stop breathing, Depressants can result in seizures, respiratory depression, and decreased heart rate, and Stimulants can result in high body temperature, irregular heart rate, cardiovascular system failure, and seizures (www.theantidrug.com).” Teens are now finding new ways to...