The nontherapeutic use of psychotherapeutic drugs among the college age group: the sedatives and tranquilizers.

Abstract

Abstract The sedatives and minor tranquilizers comprise two large groups of prescription drugs widely used without medical supervision by the college age group. Within the sedative group, the barbiturates and methaqualone are currently the most popular. An estimated nine million Americans have used sedatives without medical supervision, approximately five and one-half million of whom are within the college age group. The appeal of barbiturates to college students is that these drugs produce a “high” similar to that of alcohol, relieve feelings of stress, and produce a temporary sense of well-being. Tolerance and dependence develop quickly; high doses impair motor coordination and judgment. Barbiturates are frequently implicated in auto accidents and in suicides. Methaqualone continues to be popular among students because of its purported aphrodisiac effects and because it is frequently used to bring the cocaine user “down.” Its increase in use has therefore paralleled the increase in use of cocaine. The use of tranquilizers has doubled between 1972 and 1982. Valium, the most popular of tranquilizers, continues to be widely used among students because of its ability to be absorbed rapidly into the bloodstream and to produce its effects of euphoria and acute intoxication quickly. Though Valium is considered to be a relatively safe drug, it can be fatal if taken in large doses with alcohol. Tolerance and both psychological dependence and physiological addiction may occur and cause students to use increasing doses of the drug. A detailed knowledge of the adverse psychological and biological effects of the sedatives and tranquilizers will prove helpful to all those working within the college health facilities.