The misuse and abuse of prescription drugs is harming too many Albertans. Ease of access and affordability of medications such as opioid pain relievers, stimulants, tranquillizers and sedatives,...
Description
The misuse and abuse of prescription drugs is harming too many Albertans. Ease of access and affordability of medications such as opioid pain relievers, stimulants, tranquillizers and sedatives, can quickly and easily lead to addiction. Compounding this ease of accessibility and affordability is the false perception that if a health care practitioner prescribes these medications, they are safe. This report from the Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health provides statistics on the prevalence of prescription drug use and misuse, outlines the main issues that need to be addressed, and provides four recommended actions to address the problem.