Pubdate: Tue, 09 Mar 2004
Source: Ladysmith-Chemanius Chronicle (CN BC)
Copyright: 2004 BC Newspaper Group & New Media
Contact:  http://www.ladysmithchronicle.com
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1279
Author: Allison Krauza

DON'T ASSUME EVERYTHING IS OK

Editor:

I commend the Chronicle and the local woman for publicizing the drug
problem in Ladysmith. It is easy to put blinders on and not see what
is really there.

I work at the local Pharmasave and too often see the results of
substance abuse. It is distressing to see very young people caught up
in something that will so totally control their lives. (And to think
they're trying to get away from parental control!)

Over the last six months or so we have had a problem with certain
teens buying a type of cough syrup, and taking excess quantities, or
processing it into capsule form, for the stupefying effects.

Even this relatively harmless medication, when taken in excess, is
addictive and potentially life threatening.

I urge parents to ask what your teen is up to. Don't assume that
regular medications they can buy without a prescription are OK - there
can still be problems.

Allison Krauza

Pharmacist
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MAP posted-by: Larry Seguin