One of the easiest ways to do your part in preventing prescription drug abuse is to make sure that you clean out your medicine cabinet periodically. Properly dispose of outdated and unused pharmaceuticals that could possibly get into the wrong hands. Children and youth today are much more able to identify prescription drugs of abuse. Elderly relatives that may receive visits from youth should also be cautioned.

If you do take prescription drugs that are subject to abuse, do everything you can to secure those medications from individuals that may frequent your residence. The drug task force has investigated the theft of these drugs by invited friends and family, hired employees working inside your home, and even those touring homes offered for sale.

Because prescription drug abuse tends to be a hidden problem, education may be the best avenue to preventing this very prevalent problem. Knowing and understanding that prescription drug abuse can create a very serious addiction problem is a start to addressing this issue. It is important that we pursue this problem vigorously, while making sure that we do not negatively impact legitimate patients.

The Greater Warren County Drug Task Force welcomes information on prescription drug abuse. Tips, and other information can be provided by calling 1-513-336-0070, or through the toll free line at 1-866-307-0070. Tips can also be emailed to: drugtips@wcdtf.org