When most of us think of drugs we may imagine, Marijuana, Methamphetamine, Heroin, LSD, Acid, Ect, ect, ect. However the reality is drugs are much more common and available to every one of us who may not even be aware of what substance and/or chemicals we may have in our possession that others would try to abuse.

In fact a drug is, (Wikipedia) any substance that, when absorbed into the body of a living organism, alters normal bodily function.

By this standard a drug may be prescription medications, over the counter cold medications, diet medications, Ect. (even alcohol) All of these even when used as recommended may “alter normal bodily functions”.

Now the main difference with the drugs mentioned in the first paragraph is they are illegal to possess or use at any time. I know there are those that will argue the medicinal use of marijuana, however remember I’m referring to our younger population whose probability of that is unlikely. In the third paragraph I mention most medicines that may be prescribed and/or purchased over the counter. These medicines can still be very dangerous. Remember they are a “drug”. When used other than recommended or outside the care and direction of a prescribing physician they can be dangerous and even fatal.

There is a lot of prescription medication illegally and unlawfully obtained which subsequently gets into the hands of our youth. The youth try and test these medications outside the parameters of how they may be prescribed and without having the medical need to ingest them. Unfortunately there are those that will sell or even simply share these medications to our youth without concern of their health and safety.

If you have medications in your home, keep them in a safe place, even secured if necessary. If you suspect you may have missing or stolen medications please immediately contact the Sheriff’s Dept.

Next week I will address disposal of old or unneeded medications in your homes. If you are unsure of any medications in your home you may contact the Mineral County Sheriff’s Dept. and they will discard and remove any unneeded medications.