DrugWatch.com provides vital info on Rx drugs

In an era when doctors are writing more prescriptions than ever and the use of potent medications is on the rise, prescription drug abuse has become a growing epidemic, particularly among teens and young adults.

According to recent data released by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, approximately 20 percent of Americans have intentionally misused prescription medications. The most commonly abused prescription drugs are opioids such as hydrocodone and oxycodone, which are known to produce sensations of euphoria and can be found in brand-name pain relievers such as Vicodin and Oxycontin.

Other common drugs of abuse include anxiety medications such as Valium and Xanax, as well as psychoactive stimulants such as Ritalin and Adderall.

Despite the fact that many believe prescription drug abuse is safer than that of other well-known recreational drugs, the number of serious complications resulting from prescription drug overdose continues to increase. According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency, one out of every four drug-related emergency room visits is associated with prescription drug abuse. And in recent years, opioid drug overdoses have resulted in more deaths than those caused by heroin and cocaine combined.

In more than a dozen states, drug-related deaths now outnumber traffic fatalities.

In light of these staggering statistics, a number of health agencies and organizations have launched initiatives to inform the public about the potential dangers associated with prescription medications.

DrugWatch.com is one such initiative, and is committed to delivering continual breaking news on prescription medications, drug recalls and pharmaceutical safety alerts. On DrugWatch.com, viewers can browse through hundreds of prescription medications to find information on dangerous drug side effects, hazardous drug interactions, and drug overdose.

During a time when prescription drug use is greater than ever, DrugWatch.com provides a vital resource to help consumers stay informed, stay healthy and stay safe.