PrescriptionDrugs
PrescriptionDrugs
PrescriptionDrugs
*Schedule I and II drugs have a high potential for abuse. They require greater storage security and have a quota on manufacturing, among other restrictions. Schedule I drugs are available for research only and have no approved medical use; Schedule II drugs
are available only by prescription (unrefillable) and require a form for ordering. Schedule III and IV drugs are available by prescription, may have five refills in 6 months, and may be ordered orally. Most Schedule V drugs are available over the counter.
**Taking drugs by injection can increase the risk of infection through needle contamination with staphylococci, HIV, hepatitis, and other organisms.
***Associated with sexual assaults.
+
Not available by prescription in U.S.
Printed September 2002, Revised April 2005
Facts About Prescription Drug Abuse
Medications can be effective when they are used properly, but some can be addictive and dangerous when misused. This chart
provides a brief look at some prescribed medications that—when used in ways other than they are prescribed—have the potential
for abuse and even addiction.
Fortunately, most Americans take their medications responsibly. Addiction to prescription drugs is rare. However, in 2003, approximately
15 million Americans reported using a prescription drug for nonmedical reasons at least once during the year.
What types of prescription drugs are misused More than 6.3 Million Americans
Reported Current Use of Prescription Drugs
for Nonmedical Purposes in 2003
or abused?
Three types of drugs are misused or abused most often: 3.0 4.7
Millions of Americans
■
2.0
CNS depressants—barbiturates and benzodiazepines
1.5
prescribed for anxiety or sleep problems (often referred 1.9
1.0 1.2
to as sedatives or tranquilizers)
0.5
How can you help prevent prescription drug misuse Past Month Use of Selected Illicit Drugs
or abuse? Among Youths, by Age: 2003
■
12.0
Take your medication(s) as prescribed. 10.0
■
8.0 7.2
Read the information your pharmacist provides before 6.0
6.1
4.1
4.0
Order NIDA publications from starting to take medications. 1.8 1.4 1.4 1.0 1.9
2.0 1.0 1.0
■
0.2
NCADI: 1-800-729-6686 Ask your doctor or pharmacist about your medication, 0
Marijuana Psychotherapeutics Inhalants Hallucinogens
or TDD, 1-800-487-4889 especially if you are unsure about its effects. Source: Office of Applied Studies, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 2004.