The misuse of prescription pain relievers, tranquilizers, sedatives, and stimulants among youth and young adults aged 12 to 25 is a major public health issue in the United States. The prevalence of prescription drug misuse is highest among young adults between the ages of 18 and 25; over 11 percent report the misuse of prescription drugs in the past year. Similarly, over four percent of youth between the ages of 12 and 17 report prescription drug misuse in the past year. Although the overall prevalence of prescription drug misuse among youth and young adults has declined in recent years, its relatively high rate among young adults, in particular, is concerning. In this age category, the rates of prescription stimulant misuse are higher than the rates of misuse for other categories of prescription medications.
This Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Advisory reviews the evidence on prescription stimulant misuse among youth and young adults. It establishes prescription stimulant misuse as a public health problem, identifies associated risk and protective factors, and provides programs and action steps for stakeholders to prevent misuse.
Population of Focus: Adolescents and Young Adults
Links to Resources:
- Read the full advisory, Prescription Stimulant Misuse Among Youth and Young Adults from SAMHSA
- Read the guide, Substance Misuse Prevention for Young Adults from SAMHSA
- Read the guide, Treatment of Stimulant Use Disorders from SAMHSA
- Read the fact sheet, Tips for Teens: The Truth About Stimulants from SAMHSA
- Read the brief, Preventing Prescription Drug Misuse: Overview of Factors and Strategies from Prevention Solutions