Macomb County office of Substance Abuse

Resource Library

Please note: This library is intended for Macomb County agencies and our residents.

Registration Form: print and return to MCOSA with driver's license to register.

Alphabetical Index:
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Prescription Drugs Videos

ABUSING OVER-THE-COUNTER DRUGS
Teen drug abuse isn’t limited to illicit drugs. Many OTC (over-the-counter) drugs are misused by kids—from cold remedies to pain killers to diet pills. This program explores the most common abuses of OTC drugs and shows the chemical, biological and psychological damage that can result from abusing these ordinary drugs. Particular attention is paid to DXM, the powerful medication linked to recent deaths of young people across the country. DXM is a legal drug found in many OTCs, but it has the same qualities as drugs considered much more dangerous like heroin. The cold tablet form of this drug is the basis of a new and dangerous form of OTC drug abuse called skittling, which can also result in coma or even death. The dangers of this kind of abuse are brought home through the tragic story of Jennifer Darling, a high school student whose apparent experimentation with the drug was a cause in her own death. Students will also hear a no-nonsense message from a district attorney describing the severe legal consequences teens can receive if found driving or committing a crime while under the influence of these substances. The program also teaches viewers how to carefully read and understand OTC drug labels for active ingredients and potential overdosage. (2004, 20 mins)
Selected Audience: Teens and Twenties

LEGAL BUT DEADLY: ABUSING PRESCRIPTION DRUGS
Prescription drugs like OxyContin, Ritalin, Vicodin, Xanax and codeine based cough syrup are making headlines around the nation as teens continue to abuse these “legal” drugs by crushing the pills and snorting or injecting the powder or drinking the liquid. Studies continue to offer evidence of an emerging problem with OxyContin and Ritalin addiction among young people. Sadly, too many teens don’t realize how dangerous their experimentation can be. This timely video highlights several recent cases of teens that became addicted to prescription drugs and the resulting consequences. Program highlights kids’ false beliefs about these drugs and the all too common belief that because these drugs are prescribed they are therefore safe. On camera physicians also describe the severe side effects of prescription drugs and how these drugs seriously compromise the brain’s functions. The video makes clear that any misuse of a legal drug is not only illegal but, can also be fatal. (2005, 20 min)
Selected Audience: Teens and Twenties

METHAMPHETAMINES: THE HARD FACTS
In this hard-hitting program, students will learn what methamphetamines are, how they are illegally produced in underground “labs” by drug dealers, and how addictive and deadly they are to those who experiment with them. Known by dozens of street names—-such as speed, crank and crystal meth—-these powerful central nervous system stimulants are highly addictive and can cause permanent damage to all systems of the body. The emotional roller coaster of devastation that results from methamphetamine use is also described. Viewers will hear harrowing true stories from young people who have learned the hard facts about meth, and are now struggling to regain control of their lives. The program provides viewers with many startling details, including the fact that possession of methamphetamine carries a mandatory prison sentence of at least five years. Teacher’s Resource Book includes many helpful fact sheets and student activities designed to reinforce the video’s strong no-use message.
Selected Audience: Teens and Twenties

PRESCRIPTION DRUGS: MISUSE, ABUSE & ADDICTION
This video begins with 7 minutes of public service announcements from the Partnership of a Drug-Free America. Then several substance abuse professionals form a panel to discuss prescription drugs. The panel answers questions via the phone from two satellite conference. (2001, 120 Min.)
Selected Audience: Teens and adults