CHANDLER TEENS ARE GETTING HIGH THROUGH PRESCRIPTION DRUGS

July 24, 2014

Four out of ten Chandler teens that use prescription drugs to get high report they are getting them from the medicine cabinet of family and friends.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has classified prescription drug abuse as an epidemic. While there has been a marked decrease in the use of some illegal drugs like cocaine, data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) show that nearly one-third of people aged 12 and over who used drugs for the first time in 2009 began by using a prescription drug non-medically.

Some individuals who misuse prescription drugs, particularly teens, believe these substances are safer than illicit drugs because they are prescribed by a healthcare professional and dispensed by a pharmacist. Addressing the prescription drug abuse epidemic is not only a top priority for public health, it will also help build stronger communities and allow those with substance abuse disorders to lead healthier, more productive lives.

ICAN’s Chandler Coalition on Youth Substance Abuse (CCYSA) is having a Lockbox Campaign throughout the summer. Thanks to the Chandler Police Department, CCYSA has been able to purchase prescription drug lockboxes from RxArmory for Chandler residents for FREE. Please help spread the word to those in Chandler that have youth at home and would like to keep their prescription drugs locked and safe right. These lockboxes will fit directly in your medicine cabinet!  Remember – legal does not mean safe!

If you are a Chandler resident and are interested in getting a free prescription drug lockbox, please visit lockupyourmeds.org to fill out  simple request form.