By: John Foy & Associates

Prescription drugs remain essential in modern medicine, but across the United States, they have also become part of a growing public health concern. In 2022, U.S. healthcare providers issued over 6.1 billion prescriptions. A study by John Foy & Associates found that 61% of American adults take at least one medication daily, and more than one in four adults take four or more.

These figures suggest a significant issue: while many prescriptions are vital, a considerable number may not be medically necessary. Overprescription has been associated with drug dependency, potential side effects, and even preventable deaths.

Which Medications Are Most Overprescribed?

Research indicates that some categories of drugs are more likely to be overprescribed than others:

• Antibiotics: In 2022, healthcare providers wrote 236 million prescriptions—seven prescriptions for every ten people. A notable percentage of these were issued even without an infection being present. This misuse can contribute to antibiotic resistance, which reduces the effectiveness of medications essential for treating serious bacterial infections.

• Opioids: Drugs such as hydrocodone, oxycodone, and morphine are highly addictive, yet still widely prescribed. Of the 108,000 drug overdose deaths reported in 2022, a substantial proportion involved opioids. Many of these prescriptions were for pain that could have been addressed with alternative therapies.

Other overprescribed drugs include:

• Antidepressants: Often prescribed without comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, leading to increased risks of long-term dependency and emotional side effects.

• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): Commonly used for acid reflux, but often continued beyond the recommended usage periods.

• Statins: Prescribed to manage cholesterol, sometimes without first addressing diet and lifestyle changes.

The Dangers of Polypharmacy

As Americans take more prescriptions at once, the issue of polypharmacy—using multiple medications simultaneously—continues to increase. Older adults are especially vulnerable. Potential risks include:

• Drug interactions

• Memory loss, disorientation, and confusion

• Increased risk of falls and injuries

• Higher rates of hospitalization
  Polypharmacy can make it more challenging to manage a patient’s care safely, particularly when multiple providers are involved and prescriptions overlap.

Why Does Overprescribing Happen?

Several systemic and cultural factors contribute to overprescription in America:

• Patient expectations: Many patients expect a prescription after every appointment, even for minor illnesses.

• Time constraints: Short consultations often lead to prescriptions being written quickly, rather than discussing non-drug alternatives.

• Pharmaceutical influence: Drug companies spend billions marketing medications to both patients and doctors, which can shape perceptions and demand.
  These combined pressures have made prescriptions the default solution, even when safer or more effective approaches may be available.

Prescription Misuse Among Teens and Young Adults

Overprescription doesn’t just affect adults—it also creates risks for younger populations. In 2022, 14.4 million Americans aged 12 and older misused prescription medications, with 8.6 million misusing painkillers.

Teenagers often obtain drugs from people they know rather than illicit dealers. More than half (53%) of those surveyed said they got their most recent pill from a family member or friend. Easy access to opioids, antidepressants, and other powerful medications poses a risk of addiction, overdose, and long-term health issues for young people.

Toward Safer Prescribing

Reducing overprescription requires both patient awareness and systemic change.
For patients:

• Always take medications exactly as prescribed.

• Never share prescriptions with others.

• Keep an updated list of medications and review it with your doctor.

For healthcare providers:

• Educate patients about side effects and alternative treatments.

• Reassess prescriptions regularly, especially long-term ones.

• Encourage preventative care and lifestyle changes before prescribing.

A Smarter Future for Medicine

Prescription drugs can benefit many, but only when used appropriately. America’s culture of overprescription has introduced risks that should not be overlooked.

By promoting awareness, encouraging open doctor–patient conversations, and placing a greater focus on non-drug interventions, it’s possible to reduce the potential dangers of overprescription while maintaining the life-saving benefits of medicine.

The challenge is significant, but the path forward is clear: medication should heal, not harm.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, medical, or professional advice. The views and opinions expressed are those of the author and are based on general knowledge and publicly available information. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider or legal professional for advice specific to your individual situation. The content provided here is not intended to replace professional judgment or treatment.