Prescription Drug Abuse

Source:

DrugFreeNorthernMichigan.com(except the last slide – that’s BASES contribution)

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

Since 2000, over 500 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?

Easy Access Misconception that

PDs are safer than illicit drugs

Availability/proliference

The Good News

You can make a difference!

Prevention Tips

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

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

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

Properly dispose of old or unused drugs. Yellow Jug Old Drugs Program partners with

pharmacies in communities to collect unused or unwanted drugs.

Do not flush! Take advantage of local collection programs. Go to www.greatlakescleanwater.org for

more information.

Proper Disposal – Local Options

Charlevoix County Sheriff’s Department

Yellow Jug Old Drug Participants:

• Boyne City – Glen’s Pharmacy

• East Jordan – East Jordan Family Pharmacy

• Charlevoix – Central Drug Store

Help Spread the Word

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

How to identify a meth lab… humor is still good medicine!