Educating Patients on Rx Abuse

摘要

Much has been said in the media, at conferences l attend, and in general discussion, by those interested in reducing prescription drug abuse, about methods to educate health professionals and law enforcement officials about this issue. Although it is clear that the vast majority of people who receive prescriptions do not abuse them, some of these patients are unknowingly contributing to the problem. The rise in prescription-drug-abuse statistics, especially of those aged 12 to 17 years, has been partly attributed to teenagers obtaining drugs in their own homes, in their own medicine cabinets, or through legitimate supplies intended for a relative's or friend's chronic or terminal pain. Legitimate patients become victims when their pharmaceutical supplies are stolen, usually by individuals who live in the residence or were invited in by a trusting family member.