Since teenage prescription drug abuse is on the rise, it is important to reduce the availability of these drugs. Adults should secure these meds in a locked cabinet. Unused pill bottles should be disposed of properly. Flushing pills down the toilet are highly recommended by the Federal Government.

Drug manufacturers have now started taking more responsibility in the role they play into prescription drug abuse. These manufacturers are investigating ways in which commonly abused drugs can be made less addictive. Here are some examples of these methods:

1. Controlled-Released Drugs: These drugs slow the speed in which they enter the brain. This appears to reduce the effect they have on the brains reward centre.
2. Aversive Ingredients: By adding secondary ingredients to drug formulations. These secondary ingredients can provoke unpleasant side affects if the dose is too high.
3. Digestive Enzymes: Some drugs may eventually require exposure to digestive enzymes in order to be activated. This would greatly reduce the chances of these pills taken in any other way other than by mouth. This would work great in addicts who often crush up pills to snort or inject them.