PHP9 - Evaluating The Use of Central Nervous System Stimulants Among Medical and Non-Medical Students

Abstract

This study has been performed to evaluate the use of CNS stimulants among the undergraduate students of medical or non-medical field. A semi-structured questionnaire was prepared for survey based cross-sectional study. A sample of 440 students of 4thand final year was selected conveniently from four institutes, two medical colleges and two universities of Southern Punjab, Pakistan The response rate of 100% was achieved, all the participants responded well. It was evaluated that medical students (n=178, 80.9%) have more knowledge about CNS stimulants then non-medical students(n=102, 46.4%).So there is significant difference in knowledge about prescription CNS stimulants but insignificant difference is present in several features like withdrawal symptoms associated with the use of the Prescription CNS stimulant in medical and non-medical students. This study revealed that (n=25, 11.4%) and (n=33, 15%) of the medical and non-medical students respectively stated to be the diagnosed ADHD patients. Total 77.7% and 70.5% medical and non-medical students respectively use non-prescription CNS stimulants (Nicotine, Caffeine, Cocaine, Energy drinks, alcoholic beverages and shisha smoking) for various purposes i.e. to improve attention, mend up the confidence and to lose weight. Medical students (n=75, 34.1%) stated to suffer with fatigue as withdrawal symptom more than non-medical students (n=41, 18.6%) while sleep disturbance issue was most commonly endure by the non-medical students. The Illicit use by oral route of administration for prescription CNS Stimulants more among medical students than non-medical students; whereas least adopted route of administration is snorting and intranasal among both these groups of students It is concluded that there is significant difference between medical and non-medical students with respect to knowledge about the appropriate use and risk association, problem encounter in concentrating things and current status of the user and the reason behind their use is less awareness, increased educational burden and lack of parental guidance.