Medicine Abuse Project: Toolkit for Parents

- Online Tool
- Scientifically Informed
As part of an initiative to prevent half a million teens from starting to abuse medicine, the Medicine Abuse Project makes available toolkits to help parents learn about commonly abused prescription drugs; tips on how to prevent your child from abusing prescription drugs, and how to take action if your child is abusing prescription or over-the-counter medication.
Parents are one of the most powerful forces in preventing a child from using drugs, getting them help with substance misuse, and supporting recovery.
How to Use
There are a number of resources within this online tool. Start with the toolkits to read articles and gain a better understanding about prescription and over-the-counter drug abuse. You can filter information within the tool to read stories, view videos and read news covering the topic. The filtering option is at the top of the page. You can also sort the resources specifically among the following groups: parents and grandparents; health care providers; educators; or communities & law enforcement by clicking on the groups on the left side of the page.
Who Should Use
Parents who want to learn more about what prescription drug abuse is and how to prevent it will find this resource helpful, including: parents of young adolescents (12-16); parents of older teens/young adults (17-25); and parents of adult children. Teachers, health care providers, and community support personnel will also find helpful information within this resource.
Scientific Background
The toolkits in this resource contain information from a variety of nationally recognized organizations that conduct research and offer scientifically-informed solutions to help parents and families understand and address issues such as prescription drug abuse. Those organizations include:
The National Institute on Drug Abuse
National Council on Patient Information and Education (NCPIE)