Prescription Drug Abuse Source: DrugFreeNorthernMichigan.com (except the last slide – that’s BASES contribution)

It’s Real. It’s Growing. And, it’s Dangerous Prescription drugs account for the second most commonly abused category of drugs other than alcohol, behind marijuana and ahead of cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and other drugs.

Northern Michigan is not Immune Since 2000, over 500 deaths related to substance abuse have been recorded in northern Michigan. The majority of these deaths are related to prescription drugs. (Source: Michigan Department of Community Health)

Why so Prevalent? Easy Access Misconception that PDs are safer than illicit drugs Availability/proliference

The Good News You can make a difference!

Prevention Tips Don’t share PDs Keep PDs in a safe, secure place Properly dispose of PDs Talk to family members, friends and neighbors

Don’t Share Prescription Drugs If it wasn’t prescribed for you, it’s not safe Set an example by not sharing with family members or others Set clear rules

Safe Storage and Monitoring Store in a locked cabinet or other secure place Monitor quantities and control access Keep track of refills Ask friends and family to safeguard their PDs

Proper Disposal Properly dispose of old or unused drugs. Yellow Jug Old Drugs Program partners with pharmacies in communities to collect unused or unwanted drugs. Do not flush! Take advantage of local collection programs. Go to for more information.

Proper Disposal – Local Options Charlevoix County Sheriff’s Department Yellow Jug Old Drug Participants: Boyne City – Glen’s Pharmacy East Jordan – East Jordan Family Pharmacy Charlevoix – Central Drug Store

Help Spread the Word It’s real, it’s growing and it’s dangerous…in your community PDs can be just as dangerous as illicit drugs Talk to teens about the dangers Report suspicious activity

More Information DrugFreeNorthernMichigan.com

How to identify a meth lab… humor is still good medicine!