New proposals aim to curb prescription drug abuse in Ohio

A new bill introduced in Ohio is geared toward preventing the prescription drug epidemic from getting worse in the state, the Newark advocate reports.

Lawmakers told the news source that they admit there is no "magic bullet" that will solve the state's prescription drug problem. However, they are currently reviewing at least five major policy proposals to begin to address the situation. Lawmakers will start with a review of the Ohio Automated RX Review System.

This new system will limit prescriber's ability to personally furnish controlled substances and will focus on a number of Medicaid reforms that will improve education and allow for better coordination between patients, doctors and pharmacies.

Prescription medication such as Vicodin and OxyContin are especially attractive to teens and young adults. Many find these drugs in medicine cabinets in their own homes.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, an estimated 5 percent of high school seniors abused OxyContin in 2008. Furthermore, 4 percent of 10th grade students used the prescription painkiller recreationally.