Stemming the Tide of Prescription Drug Abuse

It often goes under the radar but prescription drug abuse is becoming a major problem in our country. Just two weeks ago, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention reported that the abuse of prescription drugs, for non-medical purposes, has reached epidemic levels.

That’s why I want to highlight the work of the American Medicine Chest Challenge (AMCC), the country’s largest private sector response to the prescription drug abuse issue. They are research-based and partner with community coalitions and law enforcement.

On November 12, AMCC held the National Day of Awareness where drop-off locations were available across the country for people to get rid of unused, unwanted and expired medicine.

Visit their site to find drop-off locations, steps for safe disposal of medicines, and tips on preventing prescription drug abuse.

Also, if you know of other organizations in your community that are working to alleviate this problem, please share with us!

-Jaime Venditti, 11/18/11