Which of the following is a warning sign that someone is misusing prescription drugs?

• A. Experiencing no changes in mood or behavior after starting the medication
• B. Openly discussing medication use with their doctor at every appointment
• C. Taking medication only as prescribed by a healthcare professional
• D. Frequently running out of medication before the next scheduled refill

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the context of prescription drug misuse, which involves using medication in a way not intended by the prescribing doctor, such as taking higher doses, using someone else's medication, or using it for non-medical reasons.
2. Identify typical warning signs of misuse, which often include behavioral changes, such as mood swings, secrecy about medication use, or running out of medication too quickly.
3. Evaluate each option by comparing it to known warning signs: no changes in mood or behavior is generally not a warning sign; openly discussing medication use with a doctor is responsible behavior; taking medication as prescribed is proper use.
4. Recognize that frequently running out of medication before the next scheduled refill suggests the person may be taking more than prescribed or using the medication improperly, which is a key warning sign of misuse.
5. Conclude that the correct warning sign indicating possible prescription drug misuse is the behavior of frequently running out of medication early.