Know the facts: Series IV Where to Turn for Help

Conduct a Self-Risk Assessment Prescription drug misuse warning signs: Seeking prescriptions from more than one doctor (e.g., patient may reference seeing a civilian doctor in addition to a Navy Medicine facility) Claiming prescription drugs were lost or stolen Continually "losing" prescriptions, so more prescriptions must be written Taking higher dosages than prescribed Taking prescription medication more frequently Complaining of increased pain and therefore a need for increased dosage Behavioral Signs of Drug Abuse Note: These warning signs should be relayed to caregivers and family members as something to watch for if prescription drug abuse is suspected Excessive mood swings or hostility Appearing to be unusually energetic or sedated Increase or decrease in sleep

Signs of Rx Drug Abuse by Type of Drug Opioids (e.g., painkillers) CNS Depressants (e.g., sedatives and anti-anxiety medications) Stimulants (e.g., ADD/ADHD medications) Constipation Depression Low blood pressure Decreased breathing rate Confusion Sweating Poor coordination Drowsiness Unsteady walking Poor judgment Involuntary and rapid movement of the eyeball Dizziness Weight loss Agitation Irritability Insomnia High blood pressure Irregular heartbeat Restlessness Impulsive behavior

Who can you talk to? If you think you or someone you know may be abusing or misusing prescription drugs there are many people whom you can and should turn to: Navy doctors Navy chaplain Substance Abuse Rehabilitation Program (SARP) advisors Alcohol and Drug Control Officers (ADCOs) and Drug and Alcohol Program Advisors (DAPAs) Other Resources Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration – Find Help Prescription Medication Misuse Program – The War Back Home Mobile apps for psychological health and stress reduction

What should I ask my doctor? When you receive a prescription from your doctor make sure you know the proper dosage and form. You can ask you doctor the following questions: How much/many am I supposed to take at one time? How many times a day/week am I supposed to take that amount? If I do not feel I need the drug any more should I continue to take it for the recommended amount of time? If I feel I need to take more than the recommended amount, can I take an extra dose? Is this prescription available for refill? How long is this prescription valid?

Series IV: Review If you are prescribed medication, periodically conduct a self-risk assessment to ensure you’re properly using your medications Know the signs of prescription drug misuse and abuse and look out for friends and family who may need help If you or someone you know may be abusing prescription drugs, talk to your Navy doctor, chaplain, or substance abuse prevention personnel/counselor To avoid misuse, come prepared to your doctor’s visit with questions to ask your doctor about any prescribed medications

Prescription for Discharge Website You can visit www.nadap.navy.mil to learn more about the Prescription for Discharge campaign On the site you can visit the following pages to learn more and download campaign materials: Tips for safe Rx Use Order Materials National Take-Back Day In the case of an emergency, call 911 or the resources below: Military OneSource Confidential Counseling  800-342-9647 Military Crisis Line 800-273-TALK (8255)