Supports campaign to focus attention on the dangers of abusing prescription medications

For Immediate Release - Alexandria, VA

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NAADAC, The Association for Addiction Professionals, announced its support for a public education campaign launched today by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and the Food and Drug Administration to focus attention on the dangers of abusing prescription medications.

"Our members have seen an increase in the number of patients, particularly adolescents, who need treatment for the misuse of prescription medications," NAADAC Executive Director Pat Ford-Roegner said. "We strongly support the effort to raise awareness about prescription misuse."

NAADAC is the nation?s largest membership organization for addiction-focused health care professionals.

Data released today indicate that in 2001 almost three million youth ages 12-17 had used prescription medications non-medically in their lifetimes. An additional report released by SAMHSA shows that emergency room hospital visits for narcotic prescription pain relievers increased dramatically from 1994-2001.

The campaign is targeted at individuals ages 14-25, but the promotional materials unveiled are relevant for all consumers who misuse prescription medications.

"The data released today confirm the anecdotal stories I have heard from frontline counselors who provide addiction treatment," Ford-Roegner said.