Prescriptions for anti-anxiety medications put teens at risk

Teens prescribed anxiety or sleep medications are more likely to abuse them later (compared to those who had never had a prescription). Teens reported they used these medications to self-treat insomnia or anxiety or to get “high.”

This research, the first longitudinal study to examine nonmedical use and medical misuse of anxiety and sleep medications among adolescents, was conducted by scientists at the University of Michigan and funded by NIDA and NCATS. The findings highlight the need for prevention strategies targeting youth who may be at risk for prescription medication abuse.

For a copy of the article (published online November 24), go to: http://psycnet.apa.org/psycinfo/2014-49427-001/.

For more information, contact the NIDA press office at media@nida.nih.gov or 301-443-6245.