A Drug Abuser! Who, me?

Tired? Tense? Have a headache or a cold?

Take some pills!

Right?

Not necessarily!!

Drug misuse is not only about the recreational substance abuse that fills the media. Medicines, the same ones that can help you, can also severely harm you if not taken in the correct manner. The adult with a headache who takes 4 aspirins instead of 2 is a drug abuser. So are the student taking diet pills to stay awake studying, and the senior citizen "just borrowing" someone else's prescription.

But, you say, these are not drugs? A drug is any chemical substance, either natural or synthetic, which may alter the function of your mind and/or body. Of course this brings to mind alcoholic beverages, which should be responsibly consumed, but, for most people, "drugs" fall into two categories:

Prescription medicines, that can only be ordered by a doctor because they must exactly fit your medical needs; and
Over-the-counter medicines, available at pharmacies and supermarkets, that can be obtained without a prescription

In all cases, doctors' and manufacturers' instructions should be followed exactly to avoid the harmful effects virtually all drugs can cause if incorrectly used.

Disclaimer: All information is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as a substitute for advice by your physician. You are advised to consult your physician regarding the applicability of any opinions or recommendations appearing here.

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