Moms Talk: Keeping Medications Away From Kids

They're addictive, they've led to an alarming, nationwide increase in accidental drug overdoses and, chances are, they're in your medicine cabinet.

Last year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported the number of emergency room visits stemming from the abuse of prescription pain medication rose 111 percent over a five-year period. To make matters worse, one in five high school students have abused prescription drugs, according to the results of 2009 National Youth Risk Behavior Survey.

The trend hasn't gone unnoticed in Minnesota, where a number of cities and counties have set up or are developing safe and anonymous disposal programs targeting prescription medications.

How do you teach your kids about the dangers of prescription drug abuse, and what can parents do to protect their children?

Post your thoughts, advice or questions concerning prescription medication abuse in the comments section below.