Prescription drug abuse is a rapidly growing epidemic in America. There are three main types of prescription drugs commonly abused - narcotic painkillers, sedatives and tranquilizers, and stimulants. Prescription drug abuse is on the rise due to the overwhelming availability of these drugs as more people need medication, and the misconception that prescription drugs are safe since they are prescribed. Prescription drug abuse costs society billions of dollars and has serious health risks for individuals, including death when mixed with alcohol or other drugs.