Misuse of drugs , the abuse of drugs and preventable addiction to drugs/substance use are simple concepts but not clearly understood by most. More importantly those impacted don’t often realise the consequences of their actions/
Misuse of drugs , the abuse of drugs and preventable addiction to drugs/substance use are simple concepts but not clearly understood by most. More importantly those impacted don’t often realise the consequences of their actions/ mis-actions.
We at DMWD take this issue serious and want everyone in the community to understand in simple and everyday language what this all means, so everyone can take the right actions and others can help in this endeavour. From parents to teachers, medical practitioners, police, sports coaches and individuals.
DMWD knows about all the confusion, sensitivity and stigma associated with drug use. Our surveys and discussions with young people have confirmed and validated our views.
Drugs/substances. These are either legal or illegal. Legal DOES NOT mean it is safe. Incorrect use of a legal product, let alone medicine is dangerous in almost all circumstances.
Let’s start with the basics
Medicine: This is either prescribed by your doctor or available from your chemist or pharmacy.
Prescription Medicine: Things which can go wrong and how it impacts you.
There is a reason you get prescription medicine: Your doctors sees it a best option for your ailment amongst other things. Prescription medicine has several keys features and if NOT adhered to it WILL potentially cause you further problems and in some cases hospitalisation or death.
MOST IMPORTANT: Take the medicine prescribed for YOU, not someone’s else.
- Firstly, you must take the right dose. Simple. But not everyone follow or realise how easy things can be mistaken. Older Australians face this problem everyday.
- Secondly , you must complete the FULL course. You should not stop just because you think you feel well.
- Thirdly you must take them at the right time. Morning, lunch, evening etc. Missing and then doubling up is not the answer.
- Fourthly take them in the right manner. Before or after meals.
- Fifthly, if you are taking multiple medicine DON’T take ALL at the same TIME. Spread them out of any hour and in The RIGHT order. Ask your Doctor. Don’t guess.
- Sixth; Do not take prescription with alcohol or any other drugs especially illicit drugs or mix it with any other substances such as carbonated and high energy drinks. THIS IS OFTEN a lethal combination.
- Seventh : DON’T GIVE YOUR MEDICINE TO SOMEBODY ELSE. YOU ARE NOT A DOCTOR.
- Eight: Don’t take medicine that is expired. It is often dangerous.
- Ninth: Place your medicine in safe and correct environment. Medicine cupboards or a fridge are required for some medicines. This will help the medicine to stay ‘safe for use’ and also does not result in accidental use by others.
- Tenth: If you lose you medicine, see you doctor. If you drop your medicine: the normal ‘ten second rule‘ does not apply. Discard and see your doctor.
Lastly: Be honest with yourself and your doctor. Don’t get repeats by lying. Don’t get medicine for others. Don’t get medicines to on sell for purposes that you know nothing about. Somebody will suffer fatal consequences down the line by your actions.
If you are unsure ask for help. Always read the labels and instructions and inform yourself where to store the medicine. Trust no-one but your doctor.
Finally, even if you have done everything right in taking your medicine or have done something not quite right and you are not feeling well, then do the RIGHT thing. See your doctor, ask someone to help you in order to get to a doctor. Don’t risk it, play it safe!
Follow the above DMWD Do Good. Be Good -instructions and you are more likely not to misuse prescription drugs. There is a lot of misery, unnecessary hospitalisation, and deaths caused by the misuse of prescriptions drugs in Australia across all members of our community.