POINTS TO REMEMBER

• We are a pill-taking society. Many of us believe there’s a pill for anything and everything that ails us, improving our appearance, performance and mood. There are thousands of good medications which are safe and effective, and new drugs come on the market every day. We are being bombarded with advertisements about the benefits of these drugs. But don’t be fooled: legal prescription drugs are not something to fool around with. Neither are some over-the-counter medications like cough syrup. Just because a doctor prescribed them to a relative or a friend doesn’t make them safe for you. Just because something comes from a drug store doesn’t make it safe to abuse.
  
• Even though prescription drugs are legal, selling and using drugs that you did not obtain through a legitimate medical prescription are illegal acts.
  
• Unless a doctor prescribes medication for you to address your own medical condition, don't take it. If using OTC medication, follow the directions carefully.
  
• You cannot predict the effect that a drug can have on you---especially if it is the first time you try it, and even if it is a small amount or dose. Everyone's brain and body chemistry are different. Everyone's tolerance for drugs is different. It's like playing Russian Roulette.
  
• Using drugs can lead to addiction, impairment and even death.
  
• Marijuana is not medicine.
  
• Addiction and dependency can be addressed through drug treatment, which is a long and hard process. It is far better not to start, not to experiment, not to tempt fate.
  
• Don't buy drugs over the Internet---don't be fooled by claims that the drugs offered on-line are safe. Many of those who sell drugs to teenagers on the Internet are simply e-dealers.

      ***Information Provided by the Drug Enforcement Agency