Prescription drug abuse continues to be a problem in New Jersey and the rest of the country. A study conducted by the National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) reports that 70% of people who abuse prescription pain relievers indicated they got them from a friend or relative.
During these trying times it is more important than ever that we safeguard our homes and families from the danger of prescription drugs and the opioid crisis. The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey’s American Medicine Chest Challenge (AMCC) 5-step challenge can help save the lives of our children. We know that many teens who misuse opioids get them from the medicine cabinet of their friends and families so it is crucial for people to safeguard medicine with their homes.
The AMCC National Day of Awareness is coming up on November 14th. It is a national public health initiative to raise awareness about the dangers of prescription drug misuse and encourage safe disposal of prescription drugs.
We want to remind everyone of the 5 steps you can take to safeguard your home.
- Take inventory of your prescription and over-the-counter medicine
- Secure your medicine
- Dispose of you unused, unwanted, and expired medicine at an American Medicine Chest Disposal Site.
- Do not share medicine prescribed to you.
- Talk to your children and physician about the dangers of prescription drug abuse…they are listening. For tips visit the Partnership to End Addiction, NIDA, and Stop Medicine Abuse.
The AMCC can save lives and we encourage you to take the time to secure your home today.
Continued wishes to stay safe and well.