1. Generation RX The New Epidemic - Young People Abusing Prescription Drugs

2. The Facts Teens are turning away from street drugs and using prescription (rx) drugs to get high. Next to marijuana the most common illegal drug teens are using to get high are rx medications. Teens are abusing rx drugs bc they believe the myth that these drugs provide a medically safe high.

3. More Facts Majority of teens get rx drugs easy and for free, often from friends or relatives. Girls are more likely than boys to abuse rx drugs. Pain relievers such as Oxycontin and Vicodin are the most commonly rx drugs abused by teens. Adolescents are more likely than young adults to become dependent on rx medication.

4. The Dangers A single large dose of over-the-counter (OTC) painkillers or depressants can cause difficulty breathing that can lead to death. Stimulant abuse can lead to hostility, paranoia, heart failure or fatal seizures. The abuse of OTC cough and cold remedies can cause blurred vision, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, coma, and even death

5. Guess What? IT IS ADDICTIVE!!

6. After Reading Generation RX Answer the Following What happens when kids can’t support their rx drug habit? What are the primary ways kids obtain rx drugs? What will addicts do to keep from going through withdrawal? Who is making money off of rx drug addiction? (Give at least 3 specific examples) What did John’s doctor do after John’s father informed him of John’s past drug addiction problems? Finish the statement: More young people age 12-17 abuse... What is a “rainbow party”? Explain 3 things you found out, 2 interesting things, and 1 question you still have.