Significance

• According to Reuters, the number of people with at least one prescription rose from 67 to 74% from 2000 to 2006. In that same time frame, the number of prescriptions per person rose 32%. There was also a $12 billion jump in spending in 2006 compared to 2000. This information was taken from a study done by pharmacy benefit manager Express Scripts.
  
  

Awareness

• It is important to know the "what" and the "where" when it comes to prescription drugs. You always want to know what side effects might come with the drugs that you are taking and where to find information on these side effects. There are some good websites that list drugs, their uses and all of their side effects. See links below.
  
  

Identification

• Always make it a point to inquire about interactions with other drugs, foods or beverages such as alcohol. Other than asking your doctor, you can find information right on the label of the bottle or you can ask the pharmacist. There is a great website below where you can actually punch in your drug and it will list foods and all other drugs that it will interact with.
  
  

Effects

• Taking prescription medications can be helpful, but they are never free of side effects. Some common side effects of drugs include nausea, headaches, upset stomach, constipation, rashes and sleep disruptions. If any of these symptoms should happen to occur, your doctor will most likely reduce the milligrams or offer dietary adjustments to reduce the symptoms.
  
  

Warning

• Prescription drugs can become addicting and be abused, just like their illicit counterparts. Sometimes people justify their use because of the fact that they are prescribed by a doctor. According to the National Institute of Drug Abuse, prescription drug addiction is one of the most underreported drug abuses known. Always use your prescription as directed and if you or someone you know is out of control, seek help immediately. There is a good resource listed below.