Medical and addiction professionals say prescriptions can be as damaging as other illicit drugs, causing addiction and even death. Below are some of the drugs most commonly abused by young people in Porter County and nationwide.

Adderall: a stimulant used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Contains dextroamphetamine and amphetamine, which stimulate the brain and can increase blood pressure.

Coricidin HBP: a cold and cough medicine safe for high blood pressure patients. Contains dextromethorphan which suppresses cough, but taken in large doses can create a high.

OxyContin: an analgesic pain reliever. Contains oxycodone, which can create a high. When abused, is often crushed, snorted or inhaled.

Ritalin: a central nervous system stimulant used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Contains methylphenidate, which can cause a high, keep a person awake or stave depression.

Vicodin: an analgesic pain reliever. Contains hydrocodone, a cough suppressant, and acetaminophen. Often swallowed with alcohol.

Xanax: treats anxiety and panic. Contains alprazolam, which decreases activity in the brain.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Drug Enforcement Administration -- Diversion Control Program lists drugs and chemicals of concern, helpful Q&As, and warnings on Internet pharmacies

www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/index.html

Indiana Division of Mental Health and Addiction -- provides state and local addiction resources

http://www.in.gov/fssa/mental

Indiana Prevention Resource Center -- drug information library provides definitions, effects, chemical make-up and photos

www.drugs.indiana.edu

Medline Plus -- service of U.S. National Library of Medicine and National Institutes of Health, provides prescription background, including typical side effects

http://medlineplus.gov

National Institute on Drug Abuse -- provides background and tips on preventing abuse among children and adolescents

www.drugabuse.gov

Porter-Starke Services -- details its services, and provides contact information to receive help

http://www.porterstarke.org

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration -- federal agency with stats, resources for crisis and substance abuse help

www.samhsa.gov