TULSA, OKLA – [November 16, 2023] – With the holiday season fast approaching, public health officials with the Tulsa Health Department’s substance abuse prevention program along with the Coalition Against Prescription and Substance Abuse of Tulsa (CAPSAT) are reminding residents to take steps to keep their homes and family members safe from prescription drug abuse.
According to the 2022 Oklahoma Adult Prescription Drug Survey, 82 % of Tulsa County residents surveyed do not secure unused or unwanted prescription medications in their homes.
“Most people who abuse or misuse prescription painkillers report getting their drugs from friends or family members,” said THD Prevention Specialist Donetta Jamieson. “During holiday gatherings, it’s easy to overlook the potential dangers lurking within our own homes. Whether it’s an elderly relative’s forgotten pain medications or a teenager’s stash of unused ADHD pills, the unsupervised presence of these substances can have devastating consequences.”
Everyone is encouraged to safeguard medications in a secure location to make sure children, family and guests do not have access to them. Additionally, health officials recommend that residents routinely dispose of unwanted, unused or expired prescription medications at safe disposal site. A list of Tulsa area household medication disposal sites is available on the THD website.
“During the holidays, we focus on food, laughs, and fun, but let’s not forget to include our family’s safety. Bring in your unused, unwanted, and older prescriptions before the holiday celebrations. Keeping your family safe should be the number one priority this season,” said Miranda Turner, Tulsa County resident and CAPSAT member.
For more information about the Tulsa Health Department’s substance abuse prevention program or the Coalition Against Prescription and Substance Abuse of Tulsa, please call 918-582-9355 or visit www.tulsa-health.org.
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