Welcome to the twelfth edition of Drugs and Pharmacology. Today, we discuss the problems that ensue when we don’t employ electronic prescription systems, the dangers of antibiotics, how to detect teenage cold medicine abuse, and other topics.

Remember, we review the latest blogs related to drugs — medicinal, recreational, interactional, personal, professional, or any other aspects. If you were left out in this round, just leave a comment with your blog entry. You can check out the archives for every edition of this carnival.

For future editions, please remember to submit your blog entries using the online submission form. We will do our best to review and include your entry! Enjoy your readings…

Lazy Man and Health writes My Doctor is Prescribing Medicine That Doesn’t Exist:

On Friday I had an interesting experience. I went to pick up a prescription that I dropped off on Thursday. At the time they said it would be ready in a half hour if I wanted to wait. I told them to take their time, I’d be back tomorrow. They were pretty happy with that.

Balanced Existence writes Why Antibiotics are Damaging Your Health:

Taking an antibiotic without taking a probiotic afterwards will kill all the bacteria leaving a host body (that means you!) free of competition. The fungi spread unchecked. In the wilds of nature when there is no competition to keep numbers down things tend to get out of hand. When they do, and they have if you’ve taken antibiotics without taking a probiotic afterwards, you’re going to have health problems.

The Right Step writes Crystal Meth Addiction: The Right Step:

The abuse of crystal methamphetamine is an epidemic that is sweeping the nation. Estimates state that at least 1.4 million people try the drug each year, and that over 12 million people over the age of twelve have tried it since 2003.

Mark Houston Recovery Blog writes 3 Dangers of Human Growth Hormone (HGH):

The most widely publicized use of HGH that has been in the news lately is the drug’s abuse by professional athletes. Additionally, many people over the age of 50 are now turning to HGH as a form of anti-aging therapy, believing that it will get rid of wrinkles and produce healthier, more vibrant skin.

Cold Medicines and Kids writes Teens Abuse OTC Cold Medicines:

Web sites are educating our children/teenagers about how to get high using these active ingredients, and the only way to stop it is for parents to intervene. Parents need to take an active role in educating their child or children early on about the dangers of drug abuse and monitor their behavior for any suspicious changes.