Rx4Life is about
A community coming together: industry leaders, social and public services providers, health professionals, educators, and individuals to address a growing problem of addiction and hidden drug abuse. Of immediate concern are prescription drugs used to treat pain. These commonly abused prescription drugs include:
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In the short term, these drugs block pain messages and cause drowsiness. A large single dose can cause severe respiratory depression and death. Long-term use leads to physical dependence and, in some cases, addiction. To learn more about safely disposing of prescription medication, click here.
General Facts
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Oxycodone and hydrocodone are among the most widely abused prescription drugs. These are powerful prescription pain medications and are a form of synthetic heroin. Source: National Institute on Drug Abuse |
The number of prescriptions filled for oxycodone and hydrocodone have increased three to four times over the past two years in our community! Source: Actual pill counts from Chewelah area pharmacies |
Abuse of these drugs ruins lives. In addition to the pain and hurt of addiction, the law allows for felony charges and penalties up to ten years in prison and/or a $25,000 fine. Source: Stevens County Prosecutor's office |
"A startling number of American teens report that they experiment with powerful drugs commonly found in medicine cabinets, often with deadly consequences. It’s time to take action. Prescriptions for Life does tremendous work educating the public — especially parents and young people – about the dangers of prescription drug abuse. Through education, and through invaluable organizations like Prescriptions for Life, we’ll drive the message home: Prescription drugs can be just as addictive as street drugs – and even more lethal."
–Attorney General Rob McKenna
