Generation RX A look into prescription drug abuse
Generation RX: A look into prescription drug abuse on college campuses
Introduction: • The problem: 12 million people • Number of deaths due to overdoses: 36, 000 total and 14, 000 due to prescription drug overdose • 2012 - number 1 cause of death in 17 states • 2009 - 12% of college students
Terms and Definitions: - Prescription drug abuse: the intentional use of medication without a prescription; in a way other than as prescribed; or for the experience or feeling it causes -Opioids: produced from opium, produces sedation and pain relief (Oxy. Cotin, Vicodin) -Stimulants: elevates mood, feeling of alertness and increased energy (Adderall, Ritalin) -Tranquilizers: depress the CNS, cause sedation (Valium and Xanax)
College Campuses • Increase of use on college campuses • Survey on 1, 300 four year students: 61% had been offered • Reasons: • Stimulants • Opioids • Tranquilizers
Stimulant Use Video http: //www. youtube. com/watch? v=EQc. X 0 a. XU_MQ
Problem with stimulants: -Unfair advantage compared to normal students and students who actually need the medication -Students with prescriptions are feeling pressured to sell -Highly illegal to sell and possess without a prescription -Snort 3 or more similar feeling to cocaine
Who is using pills: • Men more so than women • Gender gap closing • Greek system • Caucasian • More likely to use other substances • Risky behavior • Lower GPA
�How pills are being obtained: ◦ Over prescription ◦ Fraudulent prescriptions ◦ Stealing �Social influences: ◦ Peer pressure- to sell and take ◦ Peer comfort �Idea of safety
How Pills Are Being Taken: Methods of taking pills: -Swallowing, snorting, injecting, smoking Poly drug use: -Mixing with other pills, alcohol or drugs Pharming: -Candy grabbing
Dangers and Consequences • Mixing with alcohol: • • Minor: nausea, vomiting, fainting drowsiness Major: internal bleeding, heart problems, liver failure and difficulties breathing • Mixing with other pills • Overdoses
Consequences and Dangers Continued :
What is being done: �Manufacturing of pills �Prescription drug monitoring programs (PMP)- databases, 36 states �College awareness and prevention programs
Conclusion -Big problem with little recognition on campuses thus far -Affects are widespread and it truly affects us all -Call to action
Questions and Comments!
- Slides: 14