Penn State Safe & Aware

What does the research show?

Research shows that most college students do not mix alcohol with prescription or over-the-counter drugs. However, studies indicate that one in four college students have used prescription drugs for non-medical reasons at least once in their lives.

Research about illicit prescription drug use among college students indicates that students who use Adderall without a prescription are more likely to be high-risk and heavy alcohol users. And students who take prescription drugs for non-medical reasons are at least five times more likely to develop a drug abuse problem than those who do not.

Keep in mind:

  • It is both illegal and unsafe to share your medications with friends.
  • It is both unsafe and illegal to use prescription drugs without a prescription.
  • It is also illegal to be in possession of someone else’s prescription.