Parents FAQ

The Facts:

• What drugs are most likely to be abused?

  Only a few types of prescription drugs pose a threat for misuse and abuse.
  In general, these prescription drugs cause no problems when used as directed under a physician’s care, but can be troublesome when misused.

  Opioid Painkillers
  Vicodin® (hydrocodone)
  OxyContin® (oxycodone)
  Opana® (oxymorphone)
  Darvon® (propoxyphene)
  Dilaudid®) (hydromorphone)
  Demerol® (meperidine)
  Lomotil® (diphenoxylate)

  Depressants
  Valium® (diazepam)
  Xanax ® (alprazolam)
  Klonopin® (clonazepam)
  Ativan® (lorazepam)

  Stimulants
  Dexedrine® (dextroamphetamine)
  Ritalin® and Concerta® (methylphenidate)
  Adderall® (amphetamine and dextroamphetamine)

• How can I tell if my teen is misusing or abusing prescription drugs?

  Much depends on which prescription drug your teen may be misusing or abusing, for how long, and how often. Note that the symptoms of prescription drug abuse are often similar to symptoms of illicit “street” drug abuse – there is no sure way to tell if a prescription drug is at fault without blood, urine, or other laboratory tests.

  Possible signs of prescription drug abuse include:

  • Abnormal drowsiness.
  • Unusual agitation, restlessness, or disturbed sleep.
  • Rapid pulse, rapid breathing, and sweating for no obvious reason.
  • Inability to concentrate or focus.
  • Abrupt changes in personality or manner.
  • Secretive or evasive behavior.
  • Unexplained disappearance of medications from the home, especially painkillers and depressants.
  • Sudden changes in performance at school or sports.
  • Unusual irritability, aggression.

  When in doubt, it’s always best to err on the side of caution, and seek medical advice if you observe these signs.

• How can I make sure my teen doesn’t get addicted to prescription painkillers?

  If your teen is prescribed a painkiller – such as after wisdom-teeth surgery, or a football injury – the simplest answer is to take the medication only as directed by your physician.

  If you have any concerns about the possibility of dependence or addiction, talk to your physician.

• What if my teen needs to take medication during the school day?

  Contact the school about their medication management plan. In most cases, the school will require permission from you, and perhaps your teen’s physician. Depending on the policies, a school nurse or other staff member may need to supervise your teen taking medication.

• Can my teen get in trouble for sharing a prescription drug?

  Yes.
  In almost every situation, it’s illegal to take a prescription drug without a prescription. It’s also against the law to share a prescription drug with someone else, or to take someone else’s prescription drugs. It may seem innocent enough, but it’s illegal and dangerous.

  Note, too, that your school may have very strict policies about sharing prescription drugs at school.

• What if I suspect my teen is addicted to a prescription drug?

  If the prescription was legitimately prescribed by your teen’s physician, start by discussing the situation with the physician.

  If you suspect your teen obtained a diverted prescription – meaning a drug that may have come from someone else, without a valid prescription – visit the Partnership for Drug-Free Kids website for information about treatment resources and how to get help for your teen.