A coalition of nearly 20 organizations involved with health, child advocacy and substance abuse have come together to create a new tool for teen influencers.

   The program is aimed at use of prescription medicines by teenagers.

   A recent survey found prescription drugs are misused more by teens than any other illegal drug, except marijuana.

   The initiative titled "Maximizing Your Role as a Teen Influencer" is aimed at parents, teachers, coaches, health professionals and others who work and live with teens.

   A study done by the Partnership for a Drug-Free America found teens aren't using prescription drugs to feel good or get high.
   They're using them to help manage their daily lives.

   Respondents told pollsters they raided medicine cabinets to lower stress and anxiety, boost their mood or enhance athletic performance.

   The Maximizing Your Role as a Teen Influencer is available for download at TalkAboutRX.org.

  
   (Copyright 2009 by VERTEXNews/Newsroom Solutions)