Pain Relief Abuse Among Adolescents On The Rise
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
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Taking medications by teenagers for fun is a serious problem. A new study conducted at the University of Colorado, Denver, shows that the abuse of today's youth with painkillers such as Vicodin, Valium and OxyContin is 40% higher than in previous generations.
It is the abuse of analgesics that is the second most common form of illegal drug use in the US after marijuana, says Richard Michich, lead author of the study.
Often teenagers take painkillers from relatives or friends and think that they are safe, because they are prescribed by a doctor. But the use of such drugs for self-medication or for kicking, "is as dangerous as taking drugs.
"Young people who watch their parents take analgesics, can come to the conclusion that the use of these drugs can not bear health threats and is absolutely safe," says the professor. "Nevertheless, the consequences can be very serious, up to lethal outcomes."
Dr. Mitch notes that at present the number of deaths from accidental overdoses of these drugs has increased. It surpasses even the death rate from heroin and cocaine overdoses combined.
"Most admit that a loaded gun lying in the house is a source of increased danger, but few realize what a hidden threat is contained in the powerful pain killers and their uncontrolled consumption," comments Richard Meach.
According to the study, between 2004 and 2009, the non-medical use of painkillers increased by 129%. 13% of high school students use these drugs. For comparison, in 1990 this figure was only 6%.
"These results show that the current policy and measures taken are not yet effective in combating factors that affect the increase in cases of non-medical use of painkillers among young people and the general population," the professor summarizes. "It is very important that we can develop a strategy to combat this epidemic, which is only gaining momentum."
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