Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the rising trend of prescription drug abuse among young people, particularly focusing on the misuse of Pregabalin (referred to as "Pr80") for recreational purposes, and the challenges in regulating its distribution and use [1][2]. Group 1: Drug Misuse and Experiences - Young individuals are increasingly sharing their experiences of abusing Pregabalin on social media, indicating a normalization of this behavior [1][3]. - Users report starting with small doses out of curiosity, but many quickly escalate their intake, leading to dependency and adverse effects [4][7]. - Some individuals have shared extreme cases of overdose, with one user claiming to have taken 47 capsules at once, showcasing the severity of the issue [9]. Group 2: Accessibility and Regulation - Pregabalin, although a prescription medication, is often obtained through online platforms without proper medical oversight, raising concerns about regulatory effectiveness [10][13]. - Despite regulations requiring prescriptions for purchase, users have found ways to circumvent these rules by misrepresenting their conditions [14][15]. - The article notes that while some pharmacies enforce prescription requirements, others do not, leading to inconsistent access to the drug [11][12]. Group 3: Health Risks and Consequences - Medical professionals warn that excessive use of Pregabalin can lead to serious health issues, including central nervous system reactions, addiction, and potentially life-threatening conditions [16]. - Symptoms of overdose can include drowsiness, dizziness, hallucinations, and in severe cases, coma or respiratory failure [16]. - The article emphasizes the importance of professional medical guidance when using such medications, particularly for non-therapeutic purposes [16]. Group 4: Prevention and Intervention Strategies - Experts suggest a shift in approach from merely prohibiting drug use to implementing comprehensive prevention, education, and support mechanisms [19][20]. - Recommendations include enhancing public awareness about the risks of drug misuse, improving mental health services, and optimizing prescription monitoring systems [20]. - The article calls for a collaborative effort among various sectors to address the issue of prescription drug abuse effectively [20].