When you hear about drug use among teens, the image of marijuana or meth usually comes to mind.
But more common now, according to the Anti-Drug Coalitions of America, is popping fistfuls
of prescription drugs at parties.

This dangerous activity is starting to show up in Central Nebraska, and the Central Nebraska Council on Alcohol and Addictions wants parents to know about it.
Monday night at the Grand Island Grand Theater, only parents were invited to learn about a
different kind of drug abuse.


They're called 'pharm' parties. Teens get together and take fistfuls of prescription drugs. At parties, bowls and bags of random drugs are called 'trail mix' or 'skittles'...and most of it, comes from the family medicine cabinet.


"A lot of times with teens they think if it's doctor prescribed, it's not harmful," Heather Tjaden of the Nebraska Council Alcohol & Addiction said. "We want parents to know in fact it is harmful to them," she said.

Tjaden and other community leaders warned parents to look for warning signs, and then start asking questions.


Tjaden said Sudafed, Robitussin, Ambien and Tylenol PM are the most common drugs teens are using at parties. If your child carries Sudafed for a cold, make sure he or she actually has a cold, she said.

Most parents don't assume their kids are abusing Sudafed, but Alan Pfeifer said he wants to know what he should be aware of. He's the father of a 14-year-old son.


"I need to know what to look for if my son does something that doesn't act right," Pfeifer said. "It's an upcoming fad that needs to be stopped. It scares me." He said he would take all the information home to share with his wife and family friends.


Health experts report "pharm" drugs are easy to get, and are more socially acceptable than street drugs. Some kids may be relieving undiagnosed depression or anxiety...and some may want an edge for studying and tests. But Monday night, panel members said this needs to end, before it takes a life.

Tjaden said her council promotes a active vs. reactive memo. "We want parents here so we can act before something tragic happens in our community and we
would have to react," she said.


"I hope something like this never happens but I have to be pro-active instead of reactive," Pfeifer said.


Reporter's Notes: Stacia Kalinoski:

Central Nebraska Council on Alcoholism and Addiction is located at 219 West 2nd St. in Grand Island. You can call them at (308) 385-5520 or email cnca@kdsi.net for more information about "pharm" drug abuse in our area.