ADR reporting has recently been expanded to include all suspected ADRs, including overdose, misuse, abuse, medication errors and reactions associated with occupational exposure.
In fact, because it's more socially acceptable, the "good kids" may be even more likely to misuse medications than illicit drugs.
A study published earlier this year claimed that one in four American teenagers have misused medications at least once a 33percentt increase from 2008 and OxyContin has been leading the charge.
Patient factors, such as alcohol misuse, medication refusal, unsuitable co-medication use, or previous bleeding events, were the reasons for not initiating VKA therapy in <16% of cases.
The average age of individuals misusing ADHD stimulant medication in a US National Survey on Drug Use and Health was 19.5 years [ 5] and, of 1,025 students in a US university, 16 % had abused or misused medication, most commonly immediate-release methylphenidate (MPH) [ 4].
Research in ADHD populations suggests that only a small minority divert or misuse their medication [ 212] and certain long acting formulations with a low abuse potential can be used, although studies of adolescents suggest that 75% of patients who do misuse medication have comorbid SUDs [ 213].
Individuals are excluded from the BDRN if their mood disorder is a consequence of alcohol or substance misuse, medical illness, medication or an organic brain disorder, or if they are biologically related to another participant.
Of the 16 women who reported misusing prescription medications in this time period, 12 (75% of prescription medication users) reported using opioid analgesics like Vicodin, Percocet, Dilaudid, Fentanyl and Lortab.
"The earlier you start drinking, the more likely you are to end up with a drinking problem," said Paulmeno, adding that misusing prescription medications, a rising issue, can be fatal.
"Teach your teens about the dangers of misusing prescription medications, and don't buy into the notion that prescription stimulants can boost school performance of children not diagnosed with ADHD".
Follow all directions listed on medication labels to avoid overdoses or misusing the medication.
