Here is a follow-up to one of our previous posts about prescription drug abuse. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recently published some very informative infographics about prescription drug abuse by state, where people generally find prescription drugs (here’s a hint-it’s generally in the home of someone you know, most likely a family member!), and other statistics.
Drug Overdose Rates
Here is an alarming image showing drug overdose rates by state. According to information compiled in 2008, Utah has one of the highest overdose rates in the country!
Image courtesy of the CDC.
Common Sources for Prescription Drug Abuse
According to the CDC, prescription drugs are generally acquired by:
- 55% of people obtained them free from a friend or relative
- 17.3% are prescribed them by a doctor
- 11.4% bought them from a friend or relative
- 4.8% took them from a friend or relative without asking
There is a trend here. A majority of people acquire prescription drugs from a friend or relative! To help stop this epidemic, prescription drugs should be properly disposed of when treatment is completed. If continued use of prescription medication is needed, proper care should be taken to ensure that you, or a loved one aren’t abusing.
Statistics Associated with Prescription Drug Abuse
Finally, we wanted to add this infographic on other risks associated with prescription drug abuse.
Image courtesy of the CDC.
As always, it’s never too late to seek help. If you or someone you know is abusing prescription paid medication, we urge you to seek treatment at a certified Utah rehab center.