Health News

Doctors May Hesitate to Prescribe Pain Rx
Some doctors may believe that opioids to treat pain are prescribed too often and pose a risk of abuse. That belief might have made some less likely to prescribe these medications.
Head Trauma May Up Risk of Substance Abuse in Teens
Teens often engage in risky behaviors, but a head injury may mean double trouble, a new study found.
Teens May Abuse Their Prescription Medications
Prescribing anti-anxiety and sleep medications may backfire with some teens. The authors of a recent study found that teens who had received prescriptions for these medications were much more likely to abuse them.
Most Overdoses Involved Opioids
When taken incorrectly, prescription medications may be just as deadly as illegal drugs. Recent research found that most overdoses involved prescription opioids.
Alcohol Often Involved in ER Visits for Prescription Abuse
Alcohol and prescription medications can both be safe in moderation or as prescribed by a doctor. But their abuse and misuse can be dangerous or even deadly, says a new study.
Drug Overdose Deaths a Problem in US
Some medications that were created to help people heal can do major harm when abused. A new report found that death rates from some painkillers and other drugs may be on the rise.
Experts Say Opioids May Not Be Worth Risk for Some Conditions
In recent years, opioids have become a safety concern for some health officials. The American Academy of Neurology (AAN) recently released a statement on opioid use to address this problem.
September 27 Is Prescription Drug Take-Back Day
The US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), with the help of nearly 4,000 smaller law agencies, will host the ninth and final National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 27.
E-Cigarettes Could Prime Brain for Other Addictive Substances
As electronic cigarettes become more popular, the medical community is working to understand their health effects.
DEA Puts Tighter Controls on Hydrocodone Combination Pills
The US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has taken action to control the widespread abuse of narcotic painkillers. The agency has placed tighter restrictions on products containing one of the most common painkillers available.