Nonmedical use of prescription drugs is also a concern among college students.
Galanter said, "The real serious drug problem is the painkillers -- Percocet, Vicodin, OxyContin. There are a notable number of young people getting seriously addicted. It's a noticeable statistic. Some of these drugs come from the family medicine cabinet but there are also people who get illicit prescriptions and then sell the drugs as dealers."
Arria said that school administrators and parents can help by communicating with kids early in adolescence about the risks of drugs, and intervening when a child needs help and support. Armed with that support, students are more likely to stay in college once they get there.
More information
Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for tips on health and safety for college students.
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