Lessons plan & reproducible.

• Position: HEADS UP REAL NEWS ABOUT DRUGS AND YOUR BODY - Brief article

Preparation: Make copies of the activity reproducible (on the other side of this page) for each student.

OBJECTIVES Students will learn about hydrocodone and the risks associated with its abuse; they will also learn about the dangers of abusing other prescription medications.

CONNECTIONS TO NATIONAL STANDARDS Life Work; Self-Regulation; Thinking and Reasoning

WHAT YOU WILL DO

* Introduce the topic of hydrocodone abuse by asking students if they have ever heard of Vicodin[R] or OxyContin[R], or know what they are used for. Discuss some of the beneficial uses of pain relievers, then ask students what they think abuse of hydrocodone means and why it can lead to serious consequences.

* Have students read the article "The Lowdown on Hydrocodone." Begin a discussion by asking, What kinds of problems can arise when medications are taken improperly or by people other than those for whom they were prescribed? What are the dangers...