One of the interesting things about these older shows is how innocent and idealistic they come off to us in our jaded 21st century. However, a show that goes on for as many seasons as 'Family Ties' can't always stick to white picket fence issues, and that is what makes me keep watching.
This episode tackles the issue of drug use in order to improve academic performance. Alex forces his sister to borrow a friend's prescription pills so he can get through studying for mid-terms. Soon he's hyperactive, running around frantic. The predictable crash comes down on him, costing him more than he thought.
Of course, this is still 'Family Ties.' Alex learns his lesson a little too easily, too quickly. Everything is wrapped up a bit too neatly. But hey, it's supposed to be a comedy, after all.
This is the first episode where they dealt with a serious issue head on. There was one dealing with teen pregnancy but it wasn't with any member of the family. In this episode, the problem hit the Keaton's where they live.