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Which statements about drugs and drug abuse do you think are myths? Check all that apply.

1,If it's a prescription, it must be safe.
2,You can't get addicted to something your doctor prescribes.
3,"Natural" and "Organic" drugs are safer than synthetic ones.
4,The era of heavy heroin use is over.
5,If you have a stable job and family life, you're not addicted.
6,Drug addiction is a choice.​

2 Answers

3 votes

Final answer:

The statements about drugs and drug abuse being myths include misconceptions about the safety of prescription drugs, the non-addictive nature of prescribed medications, 'natural' drugs being safer than synthetic ones, the end of the heroin use era, people with stable jobs and family life being immune to addiction, and addiction simply being a choice.

Step-by-step explanation:

It's important to distinguish between facts and myths concerning drugs and drug abuse. Let's address the statements provided:

  • "If it's a prescription, it must be safe." This is a myth. Prescription drugs can be safe when used properly, but can also be dangerous if misused, leading to addiction or overdose.
  • "You can't get addicted to something your doctor prescribes." Again, this is a myth. People can and do develop addictions to prescribed medications, including opioid painkillers.
  • "'Natural' and 'Organic' drugs are safer than synthetic ones." This is a myth. The source of a drug does not necessarily determine its safety. Both natural and synthetic drugs can be abused and can lead to addiction.
  • "The era of heavy heroin use is over." This is not true. Heroin use and opioid addiction are ongoing problems.
  • "If you have a stable job and family life, you're not addicted." This myth suggests that addiction only affects a certain demographic, but addiction can impact anyone, irrespective of their job or family status.
  • "Drug addiction is a choice." While initially trying a drug may start as a choice, addiction is a complex brain disorder influenced by various factors, where choice diminishes as dependence grows.
User Nitram
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3 votes

Final answer:

Several statements about drugs and drug abuse are myths, including the mistaken beliefs that prescription drugs are always safe, that one cannot become addicted to doctor-prescribed medications, and that natural drugs are safer than synthetic ones. Drug addiction is a complex condition that can affect individuals regardless of their life circumstances, and it often entails both physical and psychological dependence.

Step-by-step explanation:

Several of the listed statements about drugs and drug abuse are indeed myths. Let's address them:


  1. If it's a prescription, it must be safe. - This is a myth because even prescription drugs can have side effects and can be misused or abused.

  2. You can't get addicted to something your doctor prescribes. - This is a myth as addiction can occur even with substances prescribed by a doctor, particularly with substances like opioids.

  3. "Natural" and "Organic" drugs are safer than synthetic ones. - This is a myth because a substance's source does not necessarily make it safer; all substances can have potential health risks.

  4. The era of heavy heroin use is over. - This is a myth as heroin use and opioid abuse in general are still significant issues.

  5. If you have a stable job and family life, you're not addicted. - This is a myth because addiction can affect people from all walks of life, regardless of their job or family status.

  6. Drug addiction is a choice. - This is a myth because while initial drug use may be a choice, addiction is a complex condition that involves changes in the brain, making it difficult to simply stop using through choice alone.

Drug addiction is a condition that occurs when a person cannot control their use of drugs, despite negative consequences. Addiction can develop from the misuse of prescription drugs as well as illegal drugs, and it often involves both physical and psychological dependence. This can lead to a wide variety of health issues, including the risk of overdose and death, which underscores the importance of understanding the realities of drug use and abuse.

User Ghayoor Ul Haq
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