Did you know that prescription medication plays a major role in addiction and cause of death for adults in America?
According to the CDC, prescription opioid sales almost quadrupled between 1999 and 2014. During the same time frame, the number of deaths related to prescription opioids grew by a similar amount. However, there was not an overall change in the pain reported by Americans. Each day, 60 individuals die from overusing or abusing these medications.
Many individuals who are abusing these prescription drugs get them from a friend or relative. Those who are at highest risk of overdosing are about four times as likely as the average user to buy the opioids from a stranger. A study conducted by the National Safety Council revealed that most individuals aren’t aware that sharing prescription opioids is a felony.
If you or a loved one is taking this type of pain medication, don’t be afraid to talk to your doctor. These prescription drugs can quickly become addictive and should be taken only as prescribed—and even then, exercise caution to avoid becoming dependent on the medication. Do not mix this type of medication with alcohol, anti-anxiety drugs, sleep aids, or other types of pain relievers. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist about any other medication you are taking.
If you’ve been prescribed this type of painkiller in the past and did not need to take the full prescription, be sure that you dispose of the medication properly. Talk to your pharmacist or local law enforcement about the best way to dispose of the drugs.
Talk to your children about why they should not take drugs that aren’t prescribed to them. Be sure that medications in your home are store up and away from curious kids to prevent accidental poisonings.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to medical malpractice, contact the Schuerman Law office today. Schuerman Law has been working with personal injury claims for over 40 years. John Schuerman will compassionately advocate for injured individuals as well as their families while fighting for full compensation of their claims. Schuerman Law offers evening and weekend appointments in addition to home and hospital visits. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 1-800-274-0045.
