There are multiple dangers in the sharing of medicine, illegal or not. There is a reason that prescription drugs are intended to be taken under the direction of a doctor. Students share medicine at school thinking that they won’t cause any harm. Teens think that abusing prescription drugs is safer than abusing illicit drugs such as heroin. Prescription drugs can have dangerous short- and long-term health consequences when used incorrectly or by someone other than who they were intended for.

Taking prescription medication without a doctor’s approval is dangerous for anyone, but the risks are far greater for teenagers. The dosage of most painkillers is based on the size of the person, what is considered a mild painkiller for a full grown adult can have a more massive effect on a teen.  The sharing of medicine can seem like it is no big deal but in reality It could have consequences. Ecstasy is a common medicine shared. Ecstasy effects include feelings of peacefulness, acceptance and empathy. Users experience feelings of closeness with others and a desire to touch others. Other effects can include teeth clenching, a loss of inhibitions, transfixion on sights and sounds, nausea, blurred vision, chills and or sweating. Increases in heart rate, blood pressure and seizures are also possible.

On the other hand, students who are not able to access these medicines might need them in certain situations. For example if students have a severe headache, why can’t they borrow medicine from their friends? Most students would choose to only take the recommended dosage. There are always some who are willing to take eight times the dosage, thinking they will feel better about themselves.

Students should be able to bring their prescribed medicine to school, but they should be limited to bringing the required dosage of that day. It would cut down on the amount of sharing of these medicines.