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Drug Abuse — When to See a Doctor

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Drug abuse is seen in people of all ages, races, and income levels. Yet, since older adults often use long-term and multiple medications, they have a higher risk of drug abuse. According to the American Geriatrics Society's Foundation for Health in Aging, older adults are most likely to abuse anti-anxiety drugs (such as Valium or Xanax), oral narcotics (such as codeine), or sleeping pills. Some older adults may be abusing drugs without even knowing it. Abusing drugs can lead to:

• Falls (and possibly broken bones or brain injury)
• Car accidents
• Addiction
• Life-threatening drug interactions

If you're using a higher dosage or using your drugs more often than your doctor recommends, you may have a problem. If you think you may have a problem, talk to your doctor. It is nothing to be ashamed of, and your doctor can help.

If you are giving care to a loved one who lives on his or her own, monitoring prescription and over-the-counter drug use is not easy. But if you suspect your loved one is misusing medicines, it’s important to take action. Ask your loved one about the medicines she or he uses, what they are for, and how your loved one keeps track of daily use. Don’t hesitate to consult with your loved one’s doctor as well.

Additional Resources

Publications

1.   Age Page: Medicines: Use Them Safely — This publication describes the difference between prescription drugs and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs. It also offers tips to avoid safety risks and get the best results from your medication at home, at the doctor's office, and at the pharmacy.

   http://www.nia.nih.gov/HealthInformation/Publications/medicines.htm

2.   Medicines and You: A Guide for Older Adults — This booklet provides a guide for older Americans on how to keep track of and safely use prescription and over-the-counter medications.

   http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/ResourcesForYou/ucm163959.htm

Organizations

1.   Center for Substance Abuse Treatment (CSAT), SAMHSA, OPHS, HHS
2.   Food and Drug Administration, HHS
3.   National Institute on Aging, NIH, HHS
4.   Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, HHS
5. Partnership for Prescription Assistance

= Indicates Federal Resources

Content last updated August 12, 2010.