Prevent Rx Drug Abuse

Do Your Part: Prevent Rx Drug Abuse

Unintentional poisonings are now the second leading cause of accidental deaths in North Carolina. The majority of these incidents are due to opioid and other prescription drug overdoses. Orange Partnership works with local agencies and organizations to increase safe use, storage and disposal of dangerous prescription medications. These practices help decrease the common perception that prescription medications are safer than illicit drugs and reduce access by those who might abuse or sell these substances.

The easiest way for teens to obtain prescription medications is from their parents’ or friends’ medicine cabinets.

What should you tell your child or teen about prescription medications?

• All medications have risks along with benefits. These risks increase dramatically when medications are abused.
• Rx medications can be just as dangerous as other types of drugs.
• Respect the power of medicine and only use it in the way a doctor prescribed it to you.
• Never share medications.
• Teach younger children that medicine and vitamins are not candy and should not be touched or taken except under adult supervision.

How do I keep my prescriptions safe?

• Keep prescription medications, especially pain relievers, in a secure, locked location.
• Contact Orange Partnership to request a free lock box. See below.

How do I dispose of my prescriptions?

• Do not flush or throw medications away in the trash.
• Unused, unwanted or expired medications should be taken to a Rx Drug Drop Box, available at all Orange County law enforcement agencies, as well as the county courthouse lobby.
• For a list of local drop boxes and what they will accept, visit www.orangecountync.gov/361/Prescription-Drug-Drop-Boxes

Resources for more information:

Medicine Abuse Project

Prevent Medicine Abuse

Lock Your Meds