Unused or unneeded prescription drugs should be disposed of.

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Although most people take prescription medications responsibly, 6.5 million persons or 2.5% of the population (12 years and older) were current users of prescription drugs for non-medical reasons. 1.9 million persons aged 12 or older were classified as dependent on or abused pain relievers.

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Teens who experiment with drugs and other substances put their health and safety at risk. The teen brain is particularly vulnerable to being rewired by substances that overload the reward circuits in the brain.

Help prevent teen drug abuse by talking to your teen about the consequences of using drugs and the importance of making healthy choices.

If you suspect or know that your teen is experimenting with or misusing drugs:

• Plan your action. 

• Talk to your teen. 

• Encourage honesty. 

• Focus on the behavior, not the person. 

• Check in regularly. 

• Get professional help