The debate over young people taking prescription drugs instead of alcohol
The article examines the growing trend of young people using prescription medications, such as anti-epileptics and beta-blockers, as recreational alternatives to alcohol. It highlights the risks of dependency and the potential for dangerous side effects when these drugs are used without medical supervision.
Why it matters
This trend highlights a significant public health concern regarding the misuse of prescription drugs for social anxiety and recreational purposes among youth.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google Isabel Shaw , BBC Global Health and Jacqui Wakefield , BBC Global Health BBC To enjoy a night out with friends, Matt once had to drink until he felt sick.
If he didn't, the 22-year-old from the north of England would spend the night silent, terrified of saying the wrong thing. The warehouse worker says it felt like there was "just no way into" the conversations everyone else seemed to be enjoying.
Then, two years ago, he swapped pints for prescription drugs he discovered through social media.
As he gets ready to go out on a Friday, Matt, whose name has been changed, now takes a medicine he purchases illegally online that usually treats epilepsy and nerve pain; alongside a beta blocker designed to slow a racing heart and relax trembling muscles (physical symptoms of anxiety).
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