Think that because a prescription drug is safe for someone else it is also safe for you?
If it is a prescription, then it can't hurt me. Can it?
The answer is, "Yes, it can!" Prescription drugs are safe when they are prescribed by a doctor and taken as directed. Many students think that if a certain medicine is safe for a friend, then it can't be dangerous. But prescription drugs are just that. drugs. Using prescription medicines in a way not prescribed by a doctor is defined as prescription drug abuse/misuse. Sharing or selling prescription medicines to others is illegal and can often come with large fines and/or jail time.
Below are a few links to educate you about the safe use of prescription medications and help you keep track of them in a safe way. Remember, prescription drugs are designed to help people. Don't use them to hurt yourself!
- Taking Action to Prevent and Address Prescription Drug Abuse
- CDC Vital Signs: Prescription Painkiller Overdoses in the U.S.
- Adderall Abuse: The Symptoms of Adderall Addiction
- Prescription Drug Abuse among College Students
- Article about prescription drug use
- Monitoring the future study

