Outline

Thesis: It is my firm belief that more laws should be enacted, more classes should be taught, and more money should be spent for the education and prevention of the use of over-the-counter drugs.

A. Though there are certain laws to prohibit teens under the age of 18 from buying over the counter drugs, that does not stop the use of these harmful substances. 1. Use of Tobacco and Alcohol products goes down but use of prescription and over-the-counter drugs goes up (Source 1) 2. "The use of oxycodine..was reported by 5.5% of students in 2005" (Source 2) / "nonmedical use of sedatives rose to 7.2, up from 2.8% in 2002." (Source 2) B. Everyone knows that schools are a place for education and learning. Should we not, however, also be educating our children about the use and prevention of over-the-counter products? 1. "A drug program for all students in a middle or elementary school health class is considered a universal intervention becuase it targets.." (Source 2) 2. Many school districts are mandated to provide drug education to students. Why not all? (Source 2) ..Example from my life. C. What are the current limitation in Arkansas to prevent the misuse of over-the-counter drugs? School programs? Strategies for parents? (Source 3) 1. Currently with all the focus on the health care bill, I am afraid there is not enough being done.. *Stat. on when last bill ab over-the-countenr products was passed.* 2. What leave it up to the parents? Most teens more likely to listen to peers... (Example from life)

Conclution: Because every life is important, laws must be passed. Parents take a stand and be aware. And school should be mandated to devote a portion of health class totally about the use and prevention of drugs.