Behavioral Intervention for Nonmedical Use of Prescription Drugs Among Adolescents and Young Adults: A Narrative Review.

The nonmedical use of prescription drugs (NMUPD) is a public health crisis. In 2020, more Americans died of drug overdose than in any prior year, and the nonmedical use of opioids and other prescription drugs contributed significantly to that total. Young adults and adolescents report the highest rates of NMUPD, relative to other age groups. This article provides a narrative review of interventions for young adults and adolescents to prevent NMUPD, including interventions directed at the individual, family or other small group, and community. The interventions reviewed included those that were delivered in person and via technology.