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Persribed Death

English 100
May 6, 2008
Prescribed Addiction
The persistent problem with the addiction and misuse of prescription drugs is affecting the way people live on a daily basis. One problem that is not helping with this rising epidemic of the abuse of prescription drugs is the availability of these types of drugs. Addiction to some types of prescription drugs can begin unintentionally after being prescribed the drug. Due to the major problem with illicit drugs such as cocaine, heroin, and crack, prescription drug abuse has not been looked at as a major priority in our society. There is promotion of prescription drug abuse among the youth figures in our society, due to the pressures to be successful in school. In nearly all cases prescription drug abuse affects school, work, and the everyday life of the user. Teens participating in “pharming” parties elevate the dangers of prescription drug use to a whole new level by combing drugs not meant to be used together.
The availability of these prescription drugs is adding to the growing amount of abuse in society. If we don’t act soon on curbing the availability of these types of drugs, overwhelming consequences to society will follow. There are many ways to get prescription drugs today. For example Forged prescriptions, multiple doctor shopping, family and friends, over prescribing physicians, and theft from hospitals, pharmacies, and residences are just some of the ways people find their drugs. There are also a number of websites that sell prescription drugs online without a prescription for a hefty price. Because these drugs are so readily available and accepted by society, abuse is increasing each year.
Addiction to prescription drugs can be just as bad as other illegal drugs such as cocaine or heroin. Prescription drug addiction can also drive people to steal from medicine cabinets where drugs may be found, or making up lies to friends and family to get excess pills. We must increase security...