New Study on Attitudes toward Prescription Drugs

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The FDA has released plans to conduct a study on teenagers’ views of prescription drugs. This came after the FDA warned the makers of Adderall to stop their misleading advertising to adolescents. 

This study will focus mainly on acne and ADHD medications. The FDA fears that because teens and adolescents have less awareness of the dangers of these prescriptions, they may not pay attention to the harm that can result and may be willing to abuse them, particularly ADHD medications that are often abused in academic settings.

The need for understanding how adolescents weigh risks and benefits is particularly critical given the potential adverse events associated with use of the drug classes that are marketed directly to adolescents,” wrote the FDA in a document posted by the Government Printing Office (gpo.gov; 7/21/14).

The FDA is concerned that based on the way many teenagers make decisions, many may not be properly weighing the risks and the benefits of these prescriptions. This is further worsened by the marketing techniques of certain prescription manufacturers.  In 2008, the parent company for Shire Pharmaceuticals, the company that owns and markets Adderall, received a warning letter from the FDA stating that neither their commercials or their website correctly stated the risks of the drug, while also overstating the drug’s benefits.

It is vital for parents to teach their children to be careful taking medications and be aware of the effects of them, both positive and negative. Young people should also be taught that using a medication not prescribed for them could be highly dangerous or even deadly. 

Drug education is the most effective way to prevent the abuse of illicit or prescription drugs. Teaching kids to be aware of the harm that can come from using drugs gives them an important lifelong skill that can prevent them from making damaging choices.

Side Effects of Adderall:

  • Nervousness
  • Dizziness
  • Restlessness
  • Headache
  • Stomachache
  • Decreased appetite
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Dry mouth
  • High blood pressure

Please contact us for free information on signs of drug abuse for all drugs and if anyone you know is struggling with a drug addiction so we can assist you in finding the best treatment for them.