Some people think that prescription drugs are safer and less addictive than street drugs. After all, these are drugs that moms, dads, and even kid brothers and sisters use. But prescription drugs are only safe for the individuals who actually have prescriptions for them. That's because a doctor has examined these people and prescribed the right dose of medication for a specific medical condition. The doctor has also told them exactly how they should take the medicine, including things to avoid while taking the medicine. Taking drugs without a prescription - or sharing a prescription drug with friends - is actually breaking the law.
Like all drug abuse, using prescription drugs for the wrong reasons has serious risks for a person's health. The dangers of prescription drug abuse can be made even worse if people take drugs in a way they weren't intended to be used.
People who abuse medications a lot can become addicted just as easily as if they were taking street drugs.