Prescription drug abuse is a lesser known problem that continues to grow. Although most people take their medications for their intended use, many do not. Not only does this lead to major health problems, but those who need prescription medications are cut off from abusers. The drugs are easily accessible and in large quantities – the perfect recipe for drug addicts. Prescription drug abuse is a growing problem leading to addiction and overdoses; doctors should be better trained before prescribing drugs and patients should go through more thorough processes before getting the requested quantity. Prescription drug abuse has been hidden from view by most Americans for decades. The use of pharmaceutical drugs dates back to 1933, when the US military used amphetamines during World War II (DEA). Usage increased after the war by ordinary citizens. Before drug regulations, this was considered harmless behavior. Since the 1930s, prescription drug abuse has only increased and for the wrong reasons: "Participants reported nonmedical use of prescription drugs to change mood, facilitate activity, and monitor the consumption of other substances” (Silva np). Small doses lead to larger doses, often followed by the use of more egregious substances like cocaine and heroin. The statistics are appalling: “46% of children under 18 (34.4 million) live in a household where someone 18 or older smokes, drinks excessively, abuses prescription medications, or uses illegal drugs » (CASA Colombia). This is an extreme crisis, and it is not without consequences. Those directly affected include children whose parents abuse substances, parents of troubled teens, families, hospital staff and doctors who...... middle of paper ...... process that must be modified. Therefore, patients must go through more in-depth processes before obtaining the requested quantity of narcotics. The key is communication between doctor and patient about the severity of the need for medication. A second doctor can help limit the patient's doses and make their well-being a priority. Regulation in the doctor's office is responsible for solving America's massive prescription drug problem. . Through structure, communication and a relationship between patient and doctor, doses can be monitored and prescribed only when necessary. In response to this, the numbers for crime, overdoses, deaths and violence will see an immediate decline. Prescription drug abuse is a societal problem that continues to grow; the solution lies in increased physician training and more thorough processes before patients can acquire medications.