Prescription Drug Overdose, Rather than Narcotics, is the Biggest Drug Fatality
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Prescription drug abuse has been found to be the biggest cause of drug fatalities in the United States, according to reports. It seems surprising that rather than heroin, cocaine or other illegal drugs being the primary culprits, it is instead standard prescription medication. Rx drug fatalities far outnumber the number of illegal drug deaths and the Florida Medical Examiner reported that deaths related to overdose of oxycodone alone were 1,185 in the state of Florida in 2008, a 249% increase since 1998. Oxycodone, like other opiates, is a medication used to treat pain.
Other statistics on prescription drugs abuse are equally alarming. Statistics released by SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) revealed a four-fold (400%) increase in the number of prescription drug abusers over the age of 12.
Why is Prescription Drugs Abuse a Growing Problem?
Obtaining prescription drugs by going from doctor to doctor has become easier than ever before. Advancements in pharmaceuticals mean more advanced drugs are readily available and also the potential for abuse. The rise of online, unregulated pharmacies has allowed prescription drug abusers easy access to medications.
Furthermore, the lack of taboo surrounding taking prescription drugs for recreational purposes contributes to ignorance about the problem. Abusing prescription drugs is not associated with crime, and addiction the way other illegal narcotics are.
But while painkillers and legal prescription drugs may provide a temporary feeling of pain relief, elation or euphoria, they are also highly addictive and lethal. If someone you know is abusing a prescription drug, encourage him or her to receive professional treatment and consult the prescription drugs list to learn more about how to properly use the medication.
