Army tests soldiers for prescription drugs

The Army is now testing for prescription drugs and all soldiers who test positive will have their medical records reviewed to make sure the medications are prescribed and being taken properly,Maj. Gen. Dana J. H. Pittard,
1st AD and Fort Bliss Commanding General, wrote in his column in the Fort Bliss Monitor.

“The most commonly abused prescription drugs are narcotics, sedatives, and stimulants,” Pittard wrote. “Prescription medication should not be shared with others and should not be increased or decreased in dosage without the doctor’s order to do so. Also, when taking certain drugs, alcohol should not be consumed. Make sure you check all of the instructions listed with the medication. Alcohol and drug abuse have no place in our Army because it negatively impacts on readiness and our mission. If you need help, get it! The Army Substance Abuse Program can help you. Call them at 744-1327.”