Today 2,500 teenagers used a prescription drug... - KOAM TV 7

Today 2,500 teenagers used a prescription drug to get high for the first time

From The Alliance of Southwest Missouri

Prescription and over the counter drug abuse is a growing problem among young people. According to the Partnership for a Drug-Free America website:

• 12 to 17 year olds abuse prescription drugs more than they abuse ecstasy, crack/cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine combined.
• There are as many new prescription drug abusers age 12 to 17 as there are marijuana abusers.

These statistics are alarming when considering the ease of access to prescription and over the counter drugs. Many people keep prescription drugs in their homes and medicine cabinets. When these prescriptions and medications are no longer needed, there are few options for safe disposal and the medications are often forgotten. Home medicine cabinets are the most popular source for teens to obtain prescription and over the counter drugs.

The Alliance of Southwest Missouri supports community anti-drug coalitions in Carthage, Neosho, and the Joplin Area. These coalitions, covering the geographical boundaries of Newton and Jasper Counties, seek to provide leadership, education and resources to prevent and address substance abuse and other unhealthy choices. In collaboration with the Neosho, Joplin, Webb City, Carl Junction, Lamar, and Carthage Police Departments and the Jasper and Newton County Sheriff Departments, these coalitions are providing an opportunity for individuals to safely dispose of medications that are no longer being used. The Alliance has received approval from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to participate in the Prescription Drug Take Back Program.

Prescription Drug Take Back Events will be held on Saturday, April 28th, 2012 from 10am – 2pm at the following locations: