Pain Pill Abuse Statistics and Trends

According to a 2001 survey (National Household Survey on Drug Abuse) by SAMHSA, of all Emergency Room admissions for drug related overdoses, 43% were due to prescription drug abuse and while overall drug abuse trends have been on a downward path over the past few years, prescription drug abuse is on the rise. And it on the rise with younger and younger kids.

Prescription medication has more and more become the drug of choice for a younger group of people as the pills have become easier to find or can even be obtained legally. Kids are able to steal pills from a family member or fake illness to get a legitimate prescription and go on to sell these pills at school or to anyone who will pay.

It's a wake up call for parents who may think that their child is largely shielded from this growing problem. Keep an eye on your childrens' behaviors and moods and keep prescription medication hidden from them.