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| News > Air Force implements new change to drug-testing policy |
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(U.S. Air Force photo illustration by Airman 1st Class Kia Atkins/Released)
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Air Force implements new change to drug-testing policy
Posted 3/21/2012 Updated 3/22/2012
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by 2nd Lt. Son Lee
35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
3/21/2012 - MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan -- The Air Force is implementing an expanded drug-testing policy that will test for a variety of prescription drugs in addition to illegal substances. In a message dated Jan. 31, Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta informed the Department of Defense of intent to test for prescription drug abuse during Drug Demand Reduction Program urinalysis.
Misuse of prescription drugs is defined as consumption of a medication for an unintended purpose or consumption of a medication not prescribed to that person. This definition also includes not following the recommended dosage.
"Any use of prescription drugs other than those specifically authorized by the prescribing physician is wrongful and can result in a trial by court-martial," said Lt. Col. Suzette Seuell, 35th Fighter Wing Staff Judge Advocate.
Abusing prescription drugs violates Article 112a of the Uniform Code of Military Justice and can result in a dishonorable discharge or dismissal, one to five years of confinement and reduction to E-1, said Seuell.
Under federal law, the transfer of controlled substances to anyone other than the patient the medicine is prescribed to is punishable as well. According to Col. Terry Haske, 35th Medical Group commander, the most commonly misused drugs are pain relievers, tranquilizers, stimulants and sedatives.
Under Air Force Instruction 44-121, Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment Program, abusers may voluntarily disclose their issues with drug abuse and possession with limited protection from action under the UCMJ as long as they have the intention of receiving treatment, said Seuell. Abusers may disclose to their unit commanders, first sergeants, substance abuse evaluators, or military medical personnel.
In addition to the legal consequences that arise from misusing prescription drugs, there are also health risks. It is dangerous to take any prescription medication without being monitored by a health care professional, said Haske.
"Pain relievers such as morphine or oxycodone can cause breathing difficulties by suppressing respiration and reducing mental alertness," said Haske. "Tranquilizers, stimulants, and sedatives can potentially cause hallucinations."
It is recommended that drugs are disposed of after the prescription period, which is typically one year, is over. Medications kept beyond this period of time can lose their potency or even degrade into toxic byproducts.
Col. Haske warns that proper disposal of medication is also important.
All information on the container should be removed and all medication should be disposed of in a specific manner, said Haske. Tablets should be crushed and capsules should be emptied into a container with a small amount of water and shredded paper or kitty litter. Once the mixture is dry, place it in a plastic bag and throw it away.
For more information or if you have a problem with prescription drug abuse, please contact the Drug Demand Reduction Program at 226-6023. |
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