KNOW THE FACTS:SERIES IVWhere to Turn for Help

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Prescription drug misuse warning signs:

• Seeking prescriptions from more than one doctor (e.g., patient may reference seeing a civilian doctor in addition to a Navy Medicine facility)

• Claiming prescription drugs were lost or stolen

• Continually "losing" prescriptions, so more prescriptions must be written

• Taking higher dosages than prescribed

• Taking prescription medication more frequently

• Complaining of increased pain and therefore a need for increased dosage

Behavioral Signs of Drug Abuse

• Note: These warning signs should be relayed to caregivers and family members as something to watch for if prescription drug abuse is suspected

• Excessive mood swings or hostility

• Appearing to be unusually energetic or sedated

• Increase or decrease in sleep

Conduct a Self-Risk Assessment

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Opioids (e.g., painkillers)

CNS Depressants (e.g., sedatives and anti-anxiety medications)

Stimulants (e.g., ADD/ADHD medications)

Constipation Depression Low blood

pressure Decreased

breathing rate Confusion Sweating Poor coordination

Drowsiness Confusion Unsteady walking Poor judgment Involuntary and rapid

movement of the eyeball

Dizziness

Weight loss Agitation Irritability Insomnia High blood

pressure Irregular heartbeat Restlessness Impulsive behavior

Signs of Rx Drug Abuse by Type of Drug

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If you think you or someone you know may be abusing or misusing prescription drugs there are many people whom you can and should turn to:

1. Navy doctors

2. Navy chaplain

3. Substance Abuse Rehabilitation Program (SARP) advisors

4. Alcohol and Drug Control Officers (ADCOs) and Drug and Alcohol Program Advisors (DAPAs)

Other Resources

• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration – Find Help

• Prescription Medication Misuse Program – The

War Back Home

• Mobile apps for psychological health and stress reduction

Who can you talk to?

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When you receive a prescription from your doctor make sure you know the proper dosage and form. You can ask you doctor the following questions:

1. How much/many am I supposed to take at one time?

2. How many times a day/week am I supposed to take that amount?

3. If I do not feel I need the drug any more should I continue to take it for the recommended amount of time?

4. If I feel I need to take more than the recommended amount, can I take an extra dose?

5. Is this prescription available for refill?

6. How long is this prescription valid?

What should I ask my doctor?

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• If you are prescribed medication, periodically conduct a self-risk assessment to ensure you’re properly using your medications

• Know the signs of prescription drug misuse and abuse and look out for friends and family who may need help

• If you or someone you know may be abusing prescription drugs, talk to your Navy doctor, chaplain, or substance abuse prevention personnel/counselor

• To avoid misuse, come prepared to your doctor’s visit with questions to ask your doctor about any prescribed medications

Series IV: Review

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• You can visit www.nadap.navy.mil to learn more about the Prescription for Discharge campaign

• On the site you can visit the following pages to learn more and download campaign materials: • Tips for safe Rx Use

• Order Materials

• National Take-Back Day

• In the case of an emergency, call 911 or the resources below:• Military OneSource

Confidential Counseling 800-342-9647

• Military Crisis Line800-273-TALK (8255)

Prescription for Discharge Website