Prescription drug misuse has increased over the past years. In 2016, about 11.8 million people aged 12 or older misused opioids. This trend not only affects adults living in the United States; it also impacts teens and young adults. In 2015, 13.5% of DC students took a prescription drug without a doctor’s authorization. Female students report the highest number of prescription drug misuse, approximately 4,035 cases of misuse in 2015.
After marijuana, pain relievers are the most commonly misused illicit drug.
Check out the “More Harmful Than You Think” campaign to learn more about the risks and effects of prescription pills and opioids.
