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Essay Perscription Drug Abuse among Teenagers

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Prescription Drug Abuse among Teenagers ( 12-17 Years)

Prescription Drugs are medications that are prescribed to patients by a doctor to help in many ways, such as relieve pain, treat symptoms of a disease, or to help fight an infection. They are very safe when used properly and under supervision of a physician, yet if used without approval of a doctor they can be very harmful and in some cases could lead to death. During your adolescence years, teens have curiosity which builds up and leads them to experimentation. They pop a pill, get high and then want more. Not only do they ease your state of mind, Increasing numbers of teens have easy access to painkillers through classmates, friends, family members, and even online. …show more content…

These drugs can “produce drowsiness; cause constipation; depress breathing...” (National Youth Anti-Drug Media Campaign 1) If you use them for a long time, it can lead to physical dependence and addiction. Your body becomes used to your normal dosage, therefore you must consume higher dosages to feel the full effect which can

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sometimes lead teens to an overdose. If the doses are reduced or stopped withdrawal symptoms occur such as vomiting, involuntary leg movement, and muscle and bone pain. You should never A few examples include Morphine, Codeine, Hydrocodone, and Oxycodone.(XXXX risk of abusing prescription drugs) CNS depressants calm the nerves of people who have anxiety disorders and/or insomnia problems. They are known to slow the brains activity down increasing drowsiness. (National Drug Intelliagance Center 3) Valium and Xanax are examples within this group used by teenagers. Withdrawal symptoms include seizures, irregular heartbeat, body temperature increases, cardiovascular failure, create feelings of hatred, and can be harmful when combined with anti-depressants or cough/cold medicines. (risks of abusing pres. Drugs) Last, we have Stimulants. They enhance the brain activity which increases your attention span and energy. Ritalin, Concerta, and Adderall are common examples used by teenagers. (National Drug

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