DrugFreeAZKids.org understands the importance of communicating with your children. We want to share the necessary tools and information with you for starting these important conversations. Talking with your child about the dangers of drugs can reduce the chance of them using by up to 50 percent. This is why we bring you a series of regular blog posts, each focusing on a specific drug. It will cover the drug’s common names, effects and the important details parents should know.
Today’s post in our 411 Drug Series examines prescription stimulants.
What is it and what does it look like?
Prescription stimulants are found in the form of tablets and capsules.
Other street names?
· Adderall
· Dexedrine
· Ritalin
What are the short- and long-term effects?
Taking high doses may result in dangerously high body temperatures and lead to an irregular heartbeat. There is potential for heart attacks and lethal seizures.
What every parent should know?
This drug is consumed by swallowing, injecting or snorting the tablet or capsule. Parents should be aware of the signs of abuse. Warning signs that their child may be using include lack of appetite, increased alertness, increased attention span and increased energy.
Many teens abuse this prescribed medication to help them cram for exams or suppress their appetite.
The mission of DrugFreeAZKids.org is to provide parents with the information they need to educate their kids about dangerous substances. In addition to this blog series, we offer other valuable tools, such as webinars and evidence-based workshops to help parents raise healthy, drug-free children.
To learn more about how to prevent drug and alcohol use by teens, visit DrugFreeAZKids.org.
