By Crystal Swann
June 29, 2009

USCM, Purdue Pharma L.P. Partner to Stop Prescription Drug Abuse

By Crystal Swann

During the 77th Annual Meeting, Conference President Miami Mayor Manny Diaz announced a new USCM partnership with the pharmaceutical company Purdue Pharma, L.P to raise awareness of the dangers of prescription drug abuse. The new national initiative — Prescription Drug Abuse Awareness Campaign — is designed to helpraise awareness and curb the illegal trafficking and abuse of prescription medications.

While attending the Annual Meeting, 70 mayors recorded 30- and 60'second public service announcements (PSAs) on the dangers of prescription drug abuse which will air on radio stations within their communities during "Recovery Month," September 2009. The Conference will work with participating mayoral press offices to distribute the PSAs to local radio stations and encourage the stations to air the spots in conjunction with September's Recovery Month.

Also, mayors are being invited to roll out the Campaign in their communities using an array of materials and educational activities. The ‘call to action' will encourage parents and other adults to learn more about the problem of prescription drug abuse, safeguard medications in their homes and talk to their children about the real dangers of misusing prescription medications. The Conference is developing an online toolkit and other materials to help mayors implement Campaign-related activities within their communities during the National Recovery Month.

Every day, more than 2,500 teenagers abuse prescription medication for the first time. Sadly, teens often experiment with medications they find right at home. These medications have a legitimate medical use when used properly under the doctor's supervision, but misuse of these medications can lead to addiction, overdose and even death.

To learn more about the campaign contact Crystal Swann at cswann@usmayors.org or 202-861-6707.