Join the Dose of Prevention Challenge During National Medicine Abuse Awareness Month

By Stop Medicine Abuse Posted October 07, 2021 under Spreading Community Awareness

This post was updated slightly in September of 2023.

Did you know that one in 31 teens has misused over-the-counter (OTC) cough medicine to get high from the active ingredient dextromethorphan (DXM)? Or that one in five young adults has misused a prescription (Rx) drug?

October is National Medicine Abuse Awareness Month (NMAAM) and we’re partnering with CADCA to raise awareness about the risks of medicine misuse. We invite coalitions to get involved by spreading the word in their own communities throughout the month and taking part in the Dose of Prevention Challenge.


2022 Dose of Prevention Winner.

Not sure how to get started? We’ve put together some ideas to inspire you:

  • Develop an awareness campaign on your social media platforms, encouraging followers to share and engage throughout the month.
  • Host a virtual town-hall meeting within your community about OTC cough medicine and Rx drug misuse.
  • Conduct an innovative contest, such as an essay writing contest that encourages middle and high school students to share why they are inspired to live substance free.

To be eligible for the Dose of Prevention Challenge, your coalition must take part in at least one activity, but you can increase your odds of being recognized and winning a range of prizes if you do more! Either way, be sure to check out the requirements before you get started. Aren’t part of a coalition but still want to take action? Visit this page for social media posts, banners and avatars, which anyone can download and use to help spread awareness.

Need more inspiration? Check out these stories from past winners!

Want to get involved? Sign up for the Dose of Prevention Challenge today!

To learn more and to amplify this challenge on your coalition’s social channels, follow @StopMedAbuse.

Take Action

Increased awareness can only mean increased prevention. Join us in the fight against teen cough medicine abuse by exploring and sharing our free resources.