Prescription drugs are a lifeline for millions, but in the U.S., they’re also part of a growing public health crisis. In 2022, over 6.1 billion prescriptions were written across the country. This study by John Foy & Associates found that 61% of American adults take at least one medication daily, and over a quarter take four or more.
While many prescriptions are essential, far too many are not. The result? A nationwide issue of overprescribing, leading to dangerous side effects, drug dependence, and even preventable deaths.
Which Medications Are Overprescribed the Most?
Our analysis found that antibiotics and opioids are the most overprescribed drugs in America.
- In 2022, U.S. healthcare providers wrote 236 million antibiotic prescriptions—that’s 7 prescriptions for every 10 people. Shockingly, in nearly half of those cases, no infection was present. This misuse drives antibiotic resistance, making these medications less effective over time.
- Opioids—such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, and morphine—are the second most overprescribed drug group. Of the 108,000 drug overdose deaths reported in 2022, 76% involved opioids. These medications are often prescribed for pain that could be managed with other treatments, yet their addictive nature makes them especially dangerous.
Following close behind are:
- Antidepressants – often prescribed without full mental health evaluations, leading to long-term dependency and emotional numbing.
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) – used to treat acid reflux, but are frequently continued beyond safe use periods.
- Statins – used for managing cholesterol, sometimes prescribed without lifestyle interventions first.
The Hidden Risk of Polypharmacy
As people, especially older adults, take multiple medications at once, the risk of polypharmacy increases. This can lead to:
- Drug interactions
- Disorientation and falls
- Cognitive decline
- Hospitalization
The more medications a person takes, the harder it becomes to manage their safety, especially when prescriptions overlap or aren’t regularly reviewed.
Why Is Overprescribing So Common?
Several factors have contributed to America’s overprescription culture:
- Quick fixes: Patients often expect prescriptions as an instant solution, even for conditions that may resolve on their own.
- Short appointment times: With limited time, healthcare providers may default to writing prescriptions rather than discussing alternatives.
- Pharmaceutical marketing: Drug companies spend billions annually on advertising, influencing both patient demand and doctor behavior.
Together, these factors have normalized overprescription and made it harder to address the root causes of many health concerns.
Prescription Misuse Among Teens and Young Adults
One especially concerning trend is the misuse of prescription medications among teens. Our research shows that 14.4 million Americans aged 12 and older misused prescriptions in 2022, with 8.6 million misusing painkillers.
Most teens don’t get these drugs from dealers; they get them from family and friends. In fact, 53% of users said their most recent pill came from someone they knew. This easy access to powerful drugs like codeine, tramadol, fentanyl, and morphine puts young people at serious risk for addiction, overdose, and lifelong consequences.
What Can Be Done?
While this issue is complex, small steps can make a big impact.
For patients:
- Take medications exactly as prescribed.
- Never share prescriptions.
- Keep track of all medications and discuss them openly with your doctor.
For healthcare providers:
- Educate patients about risks and side effects.
- Prioritize alternative treatments when appropriate.
- Regularly review a patient’s medication list to reduce overlap and long-term use.
A Path Toward Safer Prescribing
We believe better awareness leads to better outcomes. Reducing overprescription isn’t about eliminating medication; it’s about using it wisely and responsibly.
By understanding the risks and asking the right questions, we can help patients avoid harm and ensure that medicine does what it’s supposed to do: heal, not hurt.
