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Talking to your teens about alcohol, tobacco and other drugs can be difficult. But did you know that kids whose parents talk to them about drugs and alcohol use are 50% less likely to use substances? The Time to Talk Parent Blog provides facts, resources and other tools that can help you start the conversation and keep it going.

Tuesday, March 13, 2012

Signs that your teen is using Rx Drugs


Some signs that your teen might be using prescription and/or over-the-counter drugs include:
  • Constricted pupils
  • Slurred speech
  • Flushed skin. 
Other signs and symptoms may vary, but parents should be alert to the following:
  • Personality changes
  • Mood swings
  • Irritability
  • Excessive energy
  • Sleepiness or avoiding sleep
  • Sweating
  • Loss of appetite
  • Forgetfulness
  • Clumsiness 
  • Watch for signs around the house such as missing pills, unfamiliar pills, or empty cough and cold medicine bottles or packages. If your teen has a prescription, keep control of the bottle. Be alert to your teen running out of pills quickly, losing pills, or requesting refills. 
  • Other signs might include secretiveness, loss of interest in personal appearance, borrowing money or having extra cash, skipping classes, or not doing well in school.