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News September 24, 2012

The American Society of Anesthesiologists Joins Campaign to Prevent Prescription Drug Abuse

The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) today announced its strategic partnership with The Partnership at Drugfree.org’s new national campaign, The Medicine Abuse Project, to prevent half a million teens from abusing drugs.

“Many anesthesiologists are pain medicine experts and treat patients with pain management techniques and prescription drugs,” said ASA Chair of the Committee on Communications John F. Dombrowski, M.D. “ASA is pleased to be part of The Medicine Abuse Project, as anesthesiologists are passionate about not only relieving pain, but also educating patients about how to prevent drug abuse.” 

As part of the September 23-29 campaign, ASA and The Partnership at Drugfree.org encourage individuals to sign a Pledge, committing to get educated and do their part to control drug abuse, including properly safeguarding and disposing medications. In addition, individuals can:

  • Safeguard their medicine. Keep prescription drugs in a secure place.
  • Properly dispose of unused medicine at home or take-back site.
  • Educate yourself and share what you know with family, friends and neighbors.
  • Talk to kids about risks of abusing drugs.

“One in six teens take medicine to get high or change their mood,” said Dr. Dombrowski. “As medicine abuse continues to be a growing problem among teens in the United States, it is important initiatives like The Medicine Abuse Project continue to educate the public on this serious issue.”

For additional information on ASA’s involvement with the campaign, please visit LifelinetoModernMedicine.com.

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Abuse of #prescription medication is one of the biggest drug problems in the U.S. Learn more at ht.ly/e2WbM . @drugnews @patientlifeline

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Listen to a podcast from the American Society of Anesthesiologists, featuring Dr. John Dombrowski on how to prevent prescription drug abuse at http://ht.ly/e0O1C.

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Safe Pain Medication Use and Disposal

Infographic:
Get Smart about Medicine Abuse