Transcript Prescription Drug Abuse - Drug Free Northern Michigan

Prescription
Drug Abuse
In Northern Michigan
It’s Real. It’s Growing.
And, it’s Dangerous
Prescription drugs account for
the second most commonly
abused category of drugs other
than alcohol, behind marijuana
and ahead of cocaine, heroin,
methamphetamine, and other
drugs.
Northern Michigan is not Immune
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Since 2000, over 200 deaths related to
substance abuse have been recorded in
northern Michigan. The majority of these
deaths are related to prescription drugs.
(Source: Michigan Department of
Community Health)
Why so Prevalent?
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Easy Access
Misconception that
PDs are safer than
illicit drugs
Availability/proliference
The Good News
You can make a difference!
Prevention Tips
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Don’t share PDs
Keep PDs in a safe, secure place
Properly dispose of PDs
Talk to family members, friends and
neighbors
Don’t Share Prescription Drugs
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If it wasn’t prescribed for you, it’s not
safe
Set an example by not sharing with
family members or others
Set clear rules
Safe Storage and Monitoring
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Store in a locked cabinet or other secure
place
Monitor quantities and control access
Keep track of refills
Ask friends and family to safeguard their
PDs
Proper Disposal
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Properly conceal and dispose of old or
unused drugs in the trash.
Do not flush!
Take advantage of local collection
programs
Help Spread the Word
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It’s real, it’s growing and it’s
dangerous…in your community
PDs can be just as dangerous as illicit
drugs
Talk to teens about the dangers
Report suspicious activity
More Information
DrugFreeNorthernMichigan.com