We are a grassroots organization in eastern Washington seeking to educate the public - especially parents and children - about the dangers of prescription drug use. 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:
● oxycodone (OxyContin, Percodan, Percocet)
● hydromorphone (Dilaudid)
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● propoxyphene (Darvon)
● meperidine (Demerol)
● hydrocodone (Vicodin, Lortab, Lorcet)
● diphenoxylate (Lomotil)
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. Go to our
Links page to access the PDRhealth website for detailed drug information.
Fact #1
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
Fact #2
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
Fact #3
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
Copyright 2007 Prescriptions for Life. All rights reserved.