Legal But Deadly: Abusing Prescription Drugs

Prescription drugs like OxyContin, Ritalin, Vicodin, Xanax and codeine based cough syrup are making headlines around the nation as teens continue to abuse these “legal” drugs by crushing the pills and snorting or injecting the powder or drinking the liquid. Studies continue to offer evidence of an emerging problem with OxyContin and Ritalin addiction among young people. Sadly, too many teens don’t realize how dangerous their experimentation can be. This timely video highlights several recent cases of teens that became addicted to prescription drugs and the resulting consequences. Program highlights kids’ false beliefs about these drugs and the all too common belief that because these drugs are prescribed they are therefore safe. On camera physicians also describe the severe side effects of prescription drugs and how these drugs seriously compromise the brain’s functions. The video makes clear that any misuse of a legal drug is not only illegal but, can also be fatal.

Includes:

video, plus teacher’s resource book, student handouts and pre/post tests in digital format