Prescription Drug Abuse Statistics & Facts 2024

Prescription Drug Abuse Statistics

Understanding the prevalence and trends of prescription drug abuse is crucial in addressing this public health issue. Let's take a closer look at the prevalence of prescription drug abuse and the emerging trends associated with it.

Prevalence of Prescription Drug Abuse

• An estimated 18 million Americans misused prescription drugs at least once in the past year. (National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 2017)
• More than 130 people in the United States die every day from an opioid overdose. (National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2018)
• The rate of overdose deaths involving benzodiazepines, commonly prescribed for anxiety and sleep disorders, increased sevenfold from 1999 to 2015. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2018)
• Between 2000 and 2015, the rate of opioid-related hospitalizations increased by 64% in the United States. (Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, 2018)
• In 2017, there were more than 47,000 opioid overdose deaths in the United States. (National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2018)
• In a survey of high school seniors, more than 14% reported misusing prescription drugs within the past year. (Monitoring the Future Study, 2018)
• Prescription opioids are responsible for more overdose deaths than any other type of drug, including heroin and cocaine. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2018)
• The economic cost of prescription opioid misuse in the United States is estimated to be $78.5 billion per year. (National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2019)
• Between 2000 and 2016, the rate of neonatal abstinence syndrome (a group of conditions that occur in newborns exposed to opioids during pregnancy) increased almost fivefold in the United States.
• In a survey of adults who misused prescription opioids, more than half reported obtaining them from a friend or relative for free.

‍National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics

Trends in Prescription Drug Abuse

• In 2017, there were more than 47,000 opioid overdose deaths in the United States.
• The number of opioid prescriptions written in the United States peaked in 2012 at over 255 million and has since decreased to just under 200 million in 2017. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2019)
• In a survey of high school seniors, more than 14% reported misusing prescription drugs within the past year.
• In a survey of adults who misused prescription opioids, more than half reported obtaining them from a friend or relative for free. (National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 2018)
• In a study of individuals who misused prescription opioids, more than 60% reported experiencing chronic pain.
• The rate of overdose deaths involving benzodiazepines, commonly prescribed for anxiety and sleep disorders, increased sevenfold from 1999 to 2015.
• More than 130 people in the United States die every day from an opioid overdose. (National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2018)
• Between 2000 and 2015, the rate of opioid-related hospitalizations increased by 64% in the United States.
• Prescription opioids are responsible for more overdose deaths than any other type of drug, including heroin and cocaine.
• The economic cost of prescription opioid misuse in the United States is estimated to be $78.5 billion per year.

Prescription drug abuse is a pervasive issue affecting individuals from all walks of life. The statistics highlight the need for comprehensive strategies and interventions to address this public health crisis. By raising awareness, implementing preventive measures, and providing effective treatment options, we can work towards reducing the prevalence of prescription drug abuse and ensuring the well-being of individuals and communities.

Most Abused Prescription Drugs

Examining the landscape of prescription drug abuse, it becomes evident that certain types of medications are more commonly misused than others. In this section, we will delve into three categories of prescription drugs that are frequently abused: opioids, central nervous system (CNS) depressants, and stimulants.

Opioids: A Growing Concern

• Between 1999 and 2017, nearly 218,000 people in the United States died from an overdose related to prescription opioids.
• Prescription opioids are responsible for more overdose deaths than any other type of drug, including heroin and cocaine.
• In a survey of adults who misused prescription opioids, more than half reported obtaining them from a friend or relative for free.
• Prescription opioids can be up to 50 times more potent than heroin, increasing the risk of overdose.
• The number of opioid prescriptions written in the United States peaked in 2012 at over 255 million and has since decreased to just under 200 million in 2017. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2019)
• In a study of individuals who misused prescription opioids, more than 60% reported experiencing chronic pain.
• More than 130 people in the United States die every day from an opioid overdose.
• In a survey of high school seniors, more than 3% reported using OxyContin (a brand-name prescription opioid) within the past year.
• The rate of overdose deaths involving synthetic opioids such as fentanyl increased by over 1,000% between 2013 and 2018.
• In a study of individuals who received treatment for opioid addiction, nearly half reported that they first became addicted to prescription opioids before transitioning to heroin.

Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressants

CNS depressants, such as benzodiazepines (e.g., Xanax, Valium) and barbiturates, are another class of prescription drugs commonly abused. These medications are prescribed to treat anxiety, sleep disorders, and seizures. However, their sedative effects make them susceptible to misuse.

Abusing CNS depressants can result in side effects such as sleepiness, confusion, slurred speech, and slowed breathing. Stopping or reducing the dosage of these drugs abruptly can lead to seizures. Combining CNS depressants with other medications, including prescription painkillers, over-the-counter cold and allergy medicines, or alcohol, can be fatal.

Stimulants and Their Risks

Stimulant medications, commonly prescribed for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), are also among the drugs prone to abuse. Drugs such as Adderall and Ritalin, which increase alertness and attention, are misused for their stimulant effects.

While stimulants can be beneficial when used as prescribed, misuse can have severe consequences. Abuse of stimulants may lead to heart problems, seizures, panic attacks, paranoia, and even violent behavior. Mixing stimulants with other medications, including over-the-counter cold medicines, further heightens the risks.

Understanding the most commonly abused prescription drugs is crucial in tackling the issue of prescription drug abuse. By raising awareness and implementing preventive measures, such as patient examination before renewing prescriptions, healthcare professionals and society as a whole can work towards reducing the rates of misuse and addiction associated with these drugs.

Prescription Drug Abuse Across Age Groups

Prescription drug abuse is a problem that affects individuals across different age groups. Understanding the patterns of prescription drug abuse among different age groups is crucial for developing targeted prevention and intervention strategies. In this section, we will explore the prevalence of prescription drug abuse among teens and young adults, as well as its impact on the senior and elderly populations.

Prescription Drug Abuse Among Teens and Young Adults

• In a survey of high school seniors, more than 14% reported misusing prescription drugs within the past year.
• Among college students, prescription stimulants are the most commonly misused type of prescription drug.
• In a study of college students who misused prescription drugs, more than 70% reported using them to help them study or improve their grades.
• Among individuals aged 18 to 25 who misused prescription drugs in the past year, more than half obtained them from a friend or relative for free.
• In a survey of young adults aged 18 to 25, more than one-third reported misusing prescription drugs at some point in their lives.
• Misuse of prescription opioids among young adults aged 18 to 25 increased by nearly 4% between 2015 and 2016.
• In a study of adolescents who misused prescription drugs, more than 80% reported obtaining them from a friend or relative for free.
• The majority of adolescents who misuse prescription drugs obtain them from their own home medicine cabinet or from friends and family members.
• In a survey of high school students, more than 10% reported misusing prescription stimulants within the past year.
• Individuals who start misusing prescription drugs before the age of 18 are at a higher risk of developing substance use disorders later in life.

Prescription Drug Abuse in Senior and Elderly Populations

While prescription drug abuse is more commonly associated with younger age groups, senior and elderly medicated patients may also be at heightened risk of developing addiction due to the number and variety of drugs they take for health reasons. The combination of multiple health problems and the use of multiple medications, including over-the-counter drugs and alcohol, can increase the risk of misuse and dependence among older adults.

Healthcare providers play a crucial role in preventing prescription drug abuse in senior and elderly populations. Regular medication reviews, clear communication about the risks and benefits of medications, and appropriate prescribing practices can help minimize the potential for misuse and addiction. It is important to promote open dialogue between healthcare professionals and older patients to ensure that medications are used as intended and to address any concerns or questions.

In addition, healthcare professionals should be vigilant about recognizing signs of prescription drug abuse in older adults and providing appropriate interventions, including referral to addiction specialists or treatment programs. Strategies such as medication monitoring, medication disposal programs, and patient education also play a vital role in preventing prescription drug abuse in this population.

By addressing prescription drug abuse among teens and young adults, as well as implementing targeted interventions for senior and elderly populations, we can work towards reducing the prevalence and adverse consequences of prescription drug misuse across different age groups. It is essential to continue raising awareness, promoting education, and implementing comprehensive prevention and intervention strategies to combat this public health issue.

Risks and Consequences of Prescription Drug Abuse

Prescription drug abuse can have serious risks and consequences, impacting both physical and mental health. It is important to understand these risks to raise awareness and promote prevention efforts.

Physical Dependence and Addiction

One of the major risks associated with prescription drug abuse is the development of physical dependence and addiction. When prescription drugs are misused or taken in higher doses than prescribed, they can activate the brain's reward center, leading to a desire for continued use and potential addiction. Addiction to prescription drugs can occur as easily as addiction to street drugs, and it is important for healthcare providers to carefully monitor and manage prescriptions to prevent addiction.

Dangers of Polydrug Use

• In 2017, nearly 45% of opioid-related overdose deaths involved a combination of opioids and benzodiazepines (a type of CNS depressant).
• In a study of individuals who received treatment for opioid addiction, nearly 80% reported using at least one other drug in addition to opioids.
• In a survey of young adults aged 18 to 25 who misused prescription drugs, more than one-third reported combining prescription drugs with alcohol or other drugs.
• Combining opioids with alcohol, antihistamines, or other CNS depressants increases the risk of severe outcomes such as respiratory depression, coma, and death.
• In a study of individuals who misused prescription stimulants, more than half reported using them in combination with another substance such as alcohol or marijuana.
• Polydrug use involving prescription drugs is common among individuals with mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety.
• In a survey of individuals receiving treatment for substance use disorders, more than 60% reported using multiple substances.
• Overdose deaths involving benzodiazepines increased by nearly fourfold between 1999 and 2017.
• In a study of individuals who received treatment for cocaine addiction, more than half reported using cocaine in combination with another substance such as alcohol or marijuana.
• Combining prescription drugs with over-the-counter medicines or herbal supplements can also be dangerous and increase the risk of adverse effects. [1]

Prevention and Intervention Strategies

Addressing prescription drug abuse requires a multi-faceted approach, involving various stakeholders and targeted strategies. In this section, we will explore three key prevention and intervention strategies: the role of healthcare providers, targeting prescription drug abuse among teens, and harm reduction and education initiatives.

Healthcare Provider's Role in Prevention

Healthcare providers play a crucial role in preventing prescription drug abuse. They have the responsibility to educate patients about the appropriate use of prescription medications, including the importance of following instructions and adhering to prescribed dosages. By providing clear and comprehensive information, healthcare providers can help patients understand the potential risks associated with prescription drugs and the importance of responsible use.

To effectively contribute to prevention efforts, healthcare providers should maintain open and honest communication with their patients. This involves discussing alternative treatments, non-pharmacological interventions, and potential side effects of medications. Additionally, healthcare providers should regularly review and monitor patients' medication usage to identify any signs of misuse or developing dependence.

Targeting Prescription Drug Abuse Among Teens

Prevention efforts need to be specifically tailored to target prescription drug abuse among teens. Education and awareness campaigns should be implemented in schools and community settings, providing information about the risks associated with prescription drug misuse. Teaching young individuals about the dangers of sharing medications and the importance of only using prescription drugs as prescribed can help deter abuse.

Furthermore, involving parents, caregivers, and educators in prevention initiatives is essential. Providing resources and guidance on recognizing the signs of prescription drug abuse and promoting open conversations about substance use can foster a supportive environment for teens, reducing the likelihood of engaging in such behaviors.

Harm Reduction and Education Initiatives

Harm reduction and education initiatives are vital components of the comprehensive approach to combat prescription drug abuse. These projects focus on providing harm reduction supplies, such as naloxone kits, drug checking kits, clean needles, and safe consumption supplies, to individuals who use drugs. Additionally, they offer prevention programming, intervention services, and education workshops for youth, parents, and local community providers.

These initiatives often target specific populations, including Indigenous people, marginalized communities, homeless individuals, and those with specific substance use disorders. By providing culturally appropriate and trauma-informed care, they aim to address the social determinants of health and reduce the risks associated with prescription drug abuse.

Moreover, these initiatives focus on increasing access to treatment and support services, such as opioid agonist therapy, primary care, mental health counseling, and case management. By enhancing access and reducing barriers, these efforts aim to improve outcomes related to opioid overdose risks, stigma reduction, pain management, and post-surgical care.

In addition, these projects develop guidelines, toolkits, resources, and educational materials for healthcare providers, community organizations, schools, and individuals. By improving knowledge, capacity, and practice related to substance use and addiction management, they promote effective prevention and intervention strategies.

By implementing these prevention and intervention strategies, we can work towards reducing the prevalence of prescription drug abuse and its associated harms. Collaboration among healthcare providers, educators, community organizations, and individuals is essential in creating a comprehensive and effective response to this issue.

Future Directions and Initiatives

As the fight against prescription drug abuse continues, ongoing research and development, support services and treatment access, and peer support and system-level changes are key areas of focus for future initiatives.

Ongoing Research and Development

Ongoing research and development play a crucial role in addressing prescription drug abuse. Researchers are continually working to gain a deeper understanding of the factors contributing to abuse, the effectiveness of prevention and intervention strategies, and the development of new treatments. By staying at the forefront of scientific advancements, researchers can contribute to the development of evidence-based practices and policies to combat prescription drug abuse.

Support Services and Treatment Access

Improving support services and increasing access to treatment is essential in addressing prescription drug abuse. Initiatives are being implemented to provide comprehensive support to individuals struggling with addiction. These initiatives aim to increase access to treatment options such as opioid agonist therapy, primary care, mental health counseling, and case management. By addressing opioid overdose risks, reducing stigma, and enhancing post-surgical care, these initiatives strive to improve outcomes for individuals affected by prescription drug abuse.

Projects also focus on providing harm reduction supplies, prevention programming, intervention services, and education workshops for youth, parents, and local community providers. These initiatives aim to equip individuals with the knowledge and resources to prevent and address prescription drug abuse. Additionally, culturally appropriate and trauma-informed care is being emphasized to address the unique needs of specific populations, including Indigenous people, marginalized communities, homeless individuals, and youth.

Peer Support and System-Level Changes

The power of peer support cannot be underestimated in the battle against prescription drug abuse. Initiatives are utilizing peer support workers and peer-led programs to provide outreach, navigation, mentoring, and harm reduction services. Engaging individuals with lived and living experience of substance use helps to create a network of support and understanding. These peer support programs aim to drive system-level changes, advocate for policy reforms, and ensure that the voices of those affected by prescription drug abuse are heard.

By implementing changes at the system level, such as policy reforms and improved coordination among various stakeholders, initiatives are striving to create a comprehensive and integrated approach to combat prescription drug abuse. These system-level changes also focus on addressing the social determinants of health and improving access to care for individuals struggling with prescription drug abuse.

Through ongoing research and development, improved support services and treatment access, and the power of peer support and system-level changes, the future initiatives aim to make significant strides in reducing prescription drug abuse and its devastating consequences. By working together, researchers, healthcare providers, community organizations, and individuals affected by prescription drug abuse can create a positive impact on the epidemic.

References

• [1]: https://drugabusestatistics.org
• ‍[2]: https://kidshealth.org/en
• ‍[3]: https://www.mayoclinic.org
• ‍[4]: https://www.canada.ca/en