There is a new epidemic on the rise, and that is the abuse of prescription drugs. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. “ The most commonly abused prescription drugs are opioids (for pain), central nervous system depressants (for anxiety and sleep disorders), and stimulants (for ADHD and narcolepsy). The Partnership for a Drug Free America refers teens as “ Generation Rx.” What most teenagers don’t know, are the affects that abusing these drugs can have on them. Some of the minor effects are that it can slow down brain function, depress breathing, and can cause drowsiness. If mixed with alcohol, heart rate and respiration can slow down dangerously. Some major effects can cause paranoia, irregular heartbeat, or even seizures. “In 2009, 16 million Americans age 12 and older had taken a prescription pain reliever, tranquilizer, stimulant, or sedative for nonmedical purposes at least once in the year prior to being surveyed,” as stated in the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration Web Site). Sharon Spiers, head of the Health department  at SJHHS said, “ Many teens may be abusing these drugs because they are so easy to get. Most teens will try to get prescription drugs, but it ends up being too expensive. So it’s very common for them to turn to heroin because it is cheaper.” According to the 2011 Monitoring the Future survey, prescription and over-the-counter drugs are among the most commonly abused drugs by 12th graders, after alcohol, marijuana, and tobacco. If you or a loved one are abusing prescription or any other type of drug, feel free to call (1-800-662-HELP).