CHARLESTON — Teens try new trends. Teens are curious. Teens accept dares from friends. Teens can get poisoned. Teens may need the West Virginia Poison Center and we’re here for you 24/7.

The West Virginia Poison Center shares some ways teens may get poisoned.

Misuse or Abuse of Medications

Medications can be misused or abused by teens. It is important for teens to know how to safely take medications as misuse can happen by not understanding how to take medicine correctly. Also, teens may not understand the use of someone else’s prescription medication is not only dangerous. Prescription pain and sleep/anxiety medications are medicines commonly misused or abused by teens. If these types of medications must be kept in the home, lock them up and be aware of how many tablets should be in the bottle. A teen may see no harm in taking one or two pills or providing a few tablets to a classmate.

Caffeine

While some daily caffeine intake is not harmful, drinking energy drinks throughout the day can result in exposure to excessive amounts of caffeine. Teens should look at all potential exposures to caffeine, such as soda, energy drinks, water enhancers, and energy tablets.

Challenges/Dares

Are challenges/dares harmless or a more serious concern? Many challenges are described as “just for fun” but oftentimes the risks are either ignored, minimized, or considered to be part of the fun. In the worst cases, “innocent” challenges can be deadly. It is important to remember that any substance that may change how a person acts or thinks, could cause harm, even if it is “legal” or “natural.”

The West Virginia Poison Center provides comprehensive emergency poison information, prevention and educational resources to West Virginians 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.

Located in Charleston, the WVPC is a part of the West Virginia University-Charleston Division.  Toll-free:1-800-222-1222. Website:www.wvpoisoncenter.org.