Combat Drug Abuse Research Articles

Combating drug abuse through pharmacist-led public health campaigns strategic initiatives for global prevention

The global drug abuse crisis continues to pose significant public health challenges, necessitating comprehensive prevention strategies. Pharmacists, as accessible and trusted healthcare professionals, are increasingly recognized for their pivotal role in drug abuse prevention. This paper explores pharmacist-led public health campaigns and interventions designed to mitigate drug abuse, particularly through education, outreach, and collaboration with other healthcare providers. It examines core components of effective campaigns, including targeting at-risk populations such as youth and high-risk communities. Additionally, the paper discusses global prevention strategies, addressing the cultural, economic, and legal barriers that pharmacists face while highlighting opportunities for their leadership in international drug prevention efforts. The conclusion emphasizes the need for policy recommendations to enhance the pharmacist’s role in drug abuse prevention, alongside future directions leveraging digital health technologies and international collaboration to achieve more effective global outcomes.

Factors Related to the Implementation of Facilitation Policies in the Prevention, Eradication, and Countermeasures of Narcotics Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (P4GN) by the North Sumatra Provincial National Narcotics Agency (BNN)

Effective policy implementation is crucial in combating drug abuse and trafficking, influenced by various complex factors beyond technical and administrative aspects. These factors include the policy's size and objectives, communication, resources, disposition, characteristics of implementing agents, and social conditions. This study, focused on the National Narcotics Agency (BNN) in North Sumatra Province, employs a cross-sectional design involving 70 respondents through total sampling. Using structured questionnaires, multivariate analysis identifies the policy’s size and objectives as significantly impactful, with a value of 12,821 times. In conclusion, refining and optimizing policy size and objectives, enhancing communication, ensuring resources, fostering positive dispositions, and aligning agents' characteristics with policy goals are recommended for effective implementation. Further research should explore specific optimization strategies and the dynamic interaction of factors in drug policy implementation.

Capture and analysis of MDMB-4en-PINACA and ADB-4en-PINACA in exhaled breath using functionalized cotton fiber: A novel approach to noninvasive drug abuse detection

Breath analysis has emerged as a promising noninvasive method for detecting drug abuse, offering potential advantages over traditional blood or urine samples. However, the capture and analysis of trace analytes in exhaled breath (EB) remains a challenge for practical applications. In this study, we explore the utilization of poly (methacrylic anhydride-co-ethylene glycol dimethacrylate)-functionalized cotton fiber (poly (MAA-co-EGDMA)-functionalized cotton fiber) for the capture of MDMB-4en-PINACA and ADB-4en-PINACA, two popular synthetic cannabinoids, from exhaled breath. Capture efficiencies of 92 % and 88 % for MDMB-4en-PINACA and ADB-4en-PINACA were achieved demonstrating robust performance across batches and excellent stability. Animal experiments were conducted and exhaled breath samples were collected and analyzed. Shorter half-lives were shown for MDMB-4en-PINACA and ADB-4en-PINACA in EB than in plasma. The detection window for MDMB-4en-PINACA was 210 min, while 150 min for ADB-4en-PINACA. This pilot study presents a novel approach for the capture of MDMB-4en-PINACA and ADB-4en-PINACA in exhaled breath using functionalized cotton fiber. The demonstrated efficacy in capturing MDMB-4en-PINACA and ADB-4en-PINACA highlights the potential of this low-cost and stable platform for noninvasive drug abuse detection. By offering a viable alternative to invasive methods, our findings demonstrate a new noninvasive method of drug abuse detection using exhaled breath holds great promise for enhancing public health efforts to combat drug abuse.

Causes and effects of crystal methamphetamine usage among undergraduates in public tertiary institutions in Anambra State: Emerging technological resources for intervention and prevention

This study investigated the causes and effects of crystal methamphetamine usage among undergraduates at public tertiary institutions in Anambra State. It examined its potential intervention and prevention strategies using emerging technological resources. The study was conducted using a descriptive survey research design. Three research questions guided the research. The researchers used two questionnaires to collect data, distributing 200 copies randomly among undergraduate students. The researchers designed the questionnaire and validated by experts specifically for this study. Respondents' personal information was analyzed using percentages, while mean and standard deviation were used to analyze the research questions. The findings revealed among others, that there are reasons behind crystal methamphetamine use among students at public tertiary institutions in Anambra State, Awka, and this use negatively impacts their academic performance and health. The findings also revealed that mobile applications, online counselling platforms and social media campaigns are the emerging technological resources for intervention and prevention. Recommendations were made, including that families should take the lead in combating drug abuse by collaborating with community organizations like town unions should work on preventing the production, sale, and use of methamphetamine within and outside the university environments. It was further recommended that educational institutions like public tertiary institutions in Anambra State could leverage emerging technologies such as mobile applications, online platforms, and social media campaigns to disseminate information about the harmful effects of drug use and provide resources for prevention and intervention. Keywords: Crystal Methamphetamine, Causes, Effects, Usage, Emerging, Technological Resources, Intervention, Prevention.

A handheld fluorescent lateral flow immunoassay platform for highly sensitive point-of-care detection of methamphetamine and tramadol

The escalating issue of drug abuse poses a significant threat to public health and societal stability worldwide. An on-site drug detection platform is vital for combating drug abuse and trafficking, as it eliminates the need for additional tools, extensive processes, or specialized training. Therefore, it is imperative to develop a fast, sensitive, non-invasive, and reliable multiplex drug testing platform. In this study, we have presented a silica core@dual quantum dot-shell nanocomposite (SI/DQD)-based fluorescent lateral flow immunoassay (LFIA) platform for the highly sensitive and simultaneous point-of-care (POC) detection of methamphetamine (MET) and tramadol (TR). A 3D-printed attachment was designed to integrate optical and electrical components, facilitating the miniaturization of the instrument and reducing both cost and complexity. The device's advanced hardware and effective fluorescence extraction algorithm with waveform reconstruction enable swift, automatic noise reduction and data analysis. SI/DQD nanocomposites were utilized as fluorescent nanotags in the LFIA strips due to their outstanding luminous efficiency and robustness. This LFIA platform achieves impressive detection limits (LODs) of 0.11 ng mL−1 for MET and 0.017 ng mL−1 for TR. The method has also successfully detected MET and TR in complex biological samples, demonstrating its practical application capabilities. The proposed fluorescent LFIA platform, based on SI/DQD technology, holds significant promise for the swift and accurate POC detection of these substances. Its affordability, compact size, and excellent analytical performance make it suitable for on-site drug testing, including at borders and roadside checks, and open up new possibilities for the design and implementation of drug testing methods.

Совершенствование административно-правовых мер в сфере предупреждения преступности лиц, злоупотребляющих наркотиками

The article reviews the place of administrative law measures in the system of prevention of crimes committed by drug addicts. The publication analyzes provisions of administrative laws that stipulate liability for drug abuse. The author dives into history of application of coercive administrative and medical measures in the soviet period, describes provisions of penal laws regulating obligatory treatment of drug-abusing convicts. Based on the historical experience of Russia and the practice of listed CIS member-states, the author suggests measures for improvement of laws in the sphere of combating drug abuse, crimes and other drug-related offenses.

A Juridical Study on the Role of Justice collaborators in the Criminal Justice System for Drug Cases with the Death Penalty Threat

The increase in drug abuse among adults has been rising significantly. This can be observed through reports in electronic and print media, which daily cover the arrests of drug abusers. Authorities responsible for combating drug abuse include the National Narcotics Agency and the Indonesian National Police. Internationally, there are several conventions governing the use and distribution of narcotics issued by global organizations such as the United Nations, including the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs 1961 (United Nations Conference for Adoption of a Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs 1961), the Convention on Manufacture and Distribution of Narcotic Drugs (Geneva 1931), and the Convention for the Suppression of Illicit Traffic in Dangerous Drugs (Geneva 1936). Furthermore, it is important to note that drug traffickers involved in the production, import, export, or distribution of Class I and II Narcotics can face the death penalty if the amount of narcotics distributed exceeds certain limits. The death penalty can also be applied to traffickers who engage in activities such as offering narcotics for sale, selling, purchasing, receiving, acting as an intermediary in transactions, exchanging, or delivering Class I and II Narcotics when the quantity exceeds a specified amount. In relation to law enforcement efforts, the term justice collaborator refers to a criminal offender who is willing to cooperate with law enforcement to expose certain organized criminal cases that pose a serious threat. These offenses include corruption, terrorism, narcotics, money laundering, human trafficking, and other organized crimes. In Supreme Court Circular (SEMA) Number 4 of 2011, a justice collaborator is also referred to as a cooperating witness.

Integrated Strategic Management for Drug Eradication: Insights from Undercover Buying Method at Mount Puyuh Police Substation

The relentless circulation of drugs within communities presents a pressing global challenge, necessitating precise eradication strategies. This study investigates the strategic management of drug eradication through the employment of the undercover buying method at the Mount Puyuh Police Substation. Drawing upon qualitative research methods including interviews, observations, and document analysis, this research delves into the integrated strategic management practices employed in combating drug abuse. Findings underscore the critical role of strategic management encompassing human resources, budgeting, and execution methods in the success of drug eradication operations. Through in-depth analysis, the effectiveness of the undercover buying method in gathering accurate intelligence and its impact on operational efficiency are elucidated. Discussion of these findings emphasizes the importance of integrated strategic management in drug eradication efforts, with practical implications including the development of more effective policies, targeted resource allocation, and enhanced public awareness campaigns. In conclusion, well-integrated strategic management holds the promise of achieving greater scale and effectiveness in drug eradication operations. The implications of this research highlight the ongoing need for refinement and advancement in sustainable drug eradication strategies

Silent Struggles: Family Dynamics and Drug Abuse Reporting Under Harsh Laws and Stigmatizing Perceptions

ABSTRACT Under Vietnam’s stringent drug laws and prevailing negative societal attitudes toward drug users, families face challenges in reporting members dealing with drug abuse. Such underreporting poses critical challenges, including a distorted understanding of the true extent of drug abuse, hindering targeted interventions and resulting in individuals being inaccessible to vital treatment and assistance. This study focuses on the shifting family structures in rural Vietnam, particularly the transition from extended to nuclear families. While prior research indicates higher drug abuse prevalence in nuclear families, reporting dynamics present a different narrative. Analyzing data from 1,772 rural communes using a Heckman selection model, we find that increasing nuclear families correlates with a lower probability of reporting drug abuse and fewer reported drug users. This finding suggests that communities with more nuclear families may harbor a greater prevalence of unreported drug users, posing significant policy challenges. Addressing underreporting becomes crucial for informed interventions combating drug abuse in evolving rural contexts.

The Role of the Indonesian National Police (Polri) in Uncovering Narcotics Crimes Among Students in the Legal Area of Medan City

This study examines the role of the Indonesian National Police (Polri) in addressing narcotics crimes among students in Medan City. The research explores the legal framework, police responsibilities, protective measures for children, influencing factors on law enforcement, and challenges faced by Polrestabes Medan. A descriptive-qualitative case study methodology is employed with statutory and case approaches. Primary data is obtained from interviews with the police, while secondary data comes from literature reviews. The normative-empirical legal research method analyzes legal principles, regulations, expert doctrines, and relevant literature. The research findings highlight the need for differentiated legal treatment for juvenile offenders and the application of Restorative Justice in juvenile criminal justice. Additionally, the study identifies internal and external challenges faced by Polrestabes Medan, including issues of mental discipline, low success rates in drug raids, and financial constraints. The research provides valuable insights to enhance law enforcement efforts in combating drug abuse among students, emphasizing the necessity for a comprehensive understanding of influencing factors and overcoming challenges.

The Role of Socialization Institutions in Combating Drug

This study aimed to identify the role of socialization institutions in combating drug abuse from the perspective of the students at Emirati universities. The researcher applied a questionnaire to the students selected from several universities in the United Arab Emirates (Al Ain University, Sharjah University, Emirates University), where the study sample consisted of (484) male and female students from different specialties. The results showed that unemployment, bad friends, and the lack of religious values resulted in drug abuse. The results revealed that the university's support of the role of media, in addition to family's control over their children's selection of friends and promoting religious morals will, certainly, contribute to reducing drug abuse among the youth. Based on the results, the study recommended the necessity of enhancing the university's cooperative role with the media to implement common educational campaigns about the risks of drug abuse and addiction, as universities can provide accurate professional information to the media. Additionally, the university's role can be activated by enhancing scientific research about the various aspects related to drugs.

Synthesis and Evaluation of Molecularly Imprinted Nanoparticles for Detection and Quantification of Zolpidem In Human Plasma

AbstractIn response to the alarming rates of zolpidem abuse, this study presents a pioneering approach utilizing molecularly imprinted nanoparticles (MIPs) in conjunction with high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) for the selective detection of zolpidem. The rational choice of zolpidem as the target analyte stems from its widespread misuse and clinical significance. The MIPs were prepared using the precipitation polymerization method, resulting in monodispersed nanoparticles with a size of approximately 258.8 nm. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) analysis confirmed the successful incorporation of zolpidem into the MIPs, designed with tailored cavities for zolpidem recognition. Moreover, incorporating the bathochromic shift phenomenon reaffirms the successful imprinting procedure. The rebinding studies showed that MIPs were highly efficient in adsorbing zolpidem from the solvent, with more than 95 % of the drug recovered after multiple cycles. The selectivity study demonstrated the MIPs′ preference for zolpidem over another drug, diazepam. The MIPs′ successful separation of zolpidem from spiked human plasma samples further validates their potential for practical applications, such as clinical toxicology. This research showcases the potential of MIPs coupled with HPLC as a powerful tool for accurate zolpidem quantification, holding great promise for combating drug abuse and advancing analytical methodologies for pharmaceutical analysis.

Utilizing Social Media for Preventing Substance Abuse

Drug addiction not only poses serious and dangerous physical and mental health hazards but also leads to numerous social and economic challenges. These challenges include an increase in drug-related crimes such as theft and robbery, unemployment, poverty, and the squandering of significant national resources. Today, addiction has emerged as a widespread phenomenon, severely threatening our societies. To confront this grave issue effectively and mitigate its adverse effects and consequences, it is imperative to resort to innovative tools. Among the most crucial tools that can be effectively utilized in prevention and combating drug abuse is the intelligent and efficient use of mass media, especially ubiquitous social and internet-based platforms.
 Without proper planning to establish an appropriate connection through media, prevention and anti-drug messages will not reach the viewers, listeners, and readers. Media professionals will also be unable to induce significant changes in the perspectives and beliefs of their audience. The functions of awareness, education, entertainment, advertising, participation, and social mobilization through media and virtual platforms illuminate the necessity of these tools in achieving preventive and responsive goals against substance abuse.
 Therefore, the objective of this meticulously conducted research is to study the preventive role and functionality of traditional, new, and social media in the context of substance abuse.

Methods of Islamic Education in Combating Drug Abuse for Women at the Hijrah Khadijah House Rehabilitation Center Bogor

This study aims to determine the method of Islamic education in the implementation of counseling guidance at the Hijrah Khadijah Rehabilitation Home. In its implementation, it involves parties in the Rehabilitation Institution, namely, coaches, psychologists, nurses, counselors, outreach officers, and female clients. To the title of the study, the type of research used is a case study with an empirical qualitative descriptive approach, which is focused on Islamic Education Methods in Combating Drug Abuse for Women Case Study at the Hijrah Khodijah House Rehabilitation Center, Bogor. Case study research is very appropriate to be used to examine in depth how the method of overcoming drug abuse for women with an Islamic education approach at the Hijrah Khadijah House Rehabilitation Center, Bogor. The results of this study indicate that the Islamic education method is very helpful in the recovery of drug abuse victims, namely by being made aware by touching their hearts with Islamic (religious) values.

Drug Prevention Outreach: Enhancing Youth Knowledge and Awareness in Ureng Country, Maluku Tengah, Indonesia

The dangers and detrimental effects of drugs on the lives and health of addicts and their families have become increasingly concerning. This study aimed to address the lack of understanding about narcotics among the youth in Ureng Country, which consists mostly of vulnerable individuals susceptible to drug contamination. The research was conducted through a community engagement initiative called the "Kuliah Kerja Nyata" (KKN) or Community Service Learning program, in collaboration with the National Narcotics Agency of Maluku Province. The drug prevention outreach involved a socialization program targeting 30 young people in Ureng Country. The implementation of the program consisted of several stages, including obtaining permission, preparation, conducting the socialization event, engaging in a question-and-answer session, and concluding with closing remarks and prayers. The results demonstrated that the drug prevention outreach successfully increased the youth's knowledge and awareness regarding the detrimental effects of drugs and drug abuse. The implications of this study highlight the importance of community-based initiatives in tackling drug-related issues, particularly among the younger generation, and call for further research and interventions to combat drug abuse globally.Highlight:
 
 Dual nature of drugs: Drugs can provide benefits but also pose health risks, including addiction.
 Negative impacts: Drugs affect individuals, families, and communities, leading to deviant behavior and future generation damage.
 Importance of drug prevention: Knowledge counseling and socialization programs help increase youth awareness and prevent drug abuse.
 
 Keyword:Drugs, Narcotics, Drug Prevention, Youth, Knowledge

Drug Prevention Outreach: Enhancing Youth Knowledge and Awareness in Ureng Country, Maluku Tengah, Indonesia

The dangers and detrimental effects of drugs on the lives and health of addicts and their families have become increasingly concerning. This study aimed to address the lack of understanding about narcotics among the youth in Ureng Country, which consists mostly of vulnerable individuals susceptible to drug contamination. The research was conducted through a community engagement initiative called the "Kuliah Kerja Nyata" (KKN) or Community Service Learning program, in collaboration with the National Narcotics Agency of Maluku Province. The drug prevention outreach involved a socialization program targeting 30 young people in Ureng Country. The implementation of the program consisted of several stages, including obtaining permission, preparation, conducting the socialization event, engaging in a question-and-answer session, and concluding with closing remarks and prayers. The results demonstrated that the drug prevention outreach successfully increased the youth's knowledge and awareness regarding the detrimental effects of drugs and drug abuse. The implications of this study highlight the importance of community-based initiatives in tackling drug-related issues, particularly among the younger generation, and call for further research and interventions to combat drug abuse globally.Highlight:
 
 Dual nature of drugs: Drugs can provide benefits but also pose health risks, including addiction.
 Negative impacts: Drugs affect individuals, families, and communities, leading to deviant behavior and future generation damage.
 Importance of drug prevention: Knowledge counseling and socialization programs help increase youth awareness and prevent drug abuse.
 
 Keyword:Drugs, Narcotics, Drug Prevention, Youth, Knowledge

Aktualisasi Pemberdayaan Keluarga Dalam Pemberantasan Penyalahgunaan Narkoba

The phenomenon of abuse of narcotics and illegal drugs among the younger generation is currently increasing. The condition of deviant behavior of the younger generation can endanger the survival of our nation's development because they are increasingly fragile and devoured by addictive substances that destroy nerves. Our young generation can no longer think clearly, as a result, the assets of this strong and intelligent nation will only be a memory. The family as a micro community in society has an important role in controlling and eradicating the dangers of drugs. Actualizing the function of the family as a forum for empowerment is one of the pillars that needs to be done and therefore family resilience is the basic foundation of the strength of the sustainability of national development. The Thematic Community Service Program by LPPM UNG in 2021 is oriented to assisting the community in combating drug abuse which is currently rife in society in general. The programs that will be delivered by students will refer to assistance activities to the community to be equally resilient and responsive in eradicating drug abuse. The target of the theme is "Community Empowerment in the Eradication of Drug/Narcotics Abuse to Realize a Shining Village (Drug Clean)". then one of the strategic programs developed is to actualize the function of the family as a forum for empowerment in eradicating drug abuse. It is important to do this because through such a program it will have an effect on increasing public knowledge and being able to innovate in handling and eradicating Drug Abuse and Illegal Drugs in the Village Community. The results of the program's achievements indicate that the actualization of family empowerment through the Thematic KKN program is the participation of families and rural communities to provide support for efforts to eradicate and control drugs which in turn becomes an effective alternative solution on the one hand and as a form of achieving drug-free villages. (Shine) on the other side.

A rapid and nondestructive approach for forensic identification of novel psychoactive substances using shifted‐excitation Raman difference spectroscopy and machine learning

Rapid drug detection is vital for combating drug abuse and inhibiting transmission, and the emergence of various novel psychoactive substances has placed higher demands on field testing. To establish a rapid, non-destructive and accurate analytical and classification method for testing novel psychoactive substances, SERDS was used to detect 37 NPS including fentanyl, amphetamine and synthetic cannabinoid under the experimental conditions of laser light source (785&785.5) nm. SERDS was also used in conjunction with machine learning to find the best classification prediction model. In this study,the characteristic peaks of 37 NPS analogues were extracted, and the characteristic peaks were attributed to the structures of the substances. We compared the classification effects of SVM,KNN,Ensemble classifier, Neural Network,Tree,Naive Bayes,Discriminant Analysis, and provided three Hyperparametric optimization methods. Finally, the cross validation accuracy of SVM under BOA optimization is 97.3%, which can well distinguish three families of samples. The ability of SERDS to resist strong fluorescence interference makes it a powerful tool for on-site analysis of NPS. In this study, we have given 37 unreported standard Raman peaks of NPS and 3 seized samples, which can be used as a reference. Shift-Excitation Differential Raman spectroscopy combined with machine learning can effectively provide solutions for customs, health care, on-site police, Large event security, and trace evidence inspection.

Using GPT-3 to Build a Lexicon of Drugs of Abuse Synonyms for Social Media Pharmacovigilance.

Drug abuse is a serious problem in the United States, with over 90,000 drug overdose deaths nationally in 2020. A key step in combating drug abuse is detecting, monitoring, and characterizing its trends over time and location, also known as pharmacovigilance. While federal reporting systems accomplish this to a degree, they often have high latency and incomplete coverage. Social-media-based pharmacovigilance has zero latency, is easily accessible and unfiltered, and benefits from drug users being willing to share their experiences online pseudo-anonymously. However, unlike highly structured official data sources, social media text is rife with misspellings and slang, making automated analysis difficult. Generative Pretrained Transformer 3 (GPT-3) is a large autoregressive language model specialized for few-shot learning that was trained on text from the entire internet. We demonstrate that GPT-3 can be used to generate slang and common misspellings of terms for drugs of abuse. We repeatedly queried GPT-3 for synonyms of drugs of abuse and filtered the generated terms using automated Google searches and cross-references to known drug names. When generated terms for alprazolam were manually labeled, we found that our method produced 269 synonyms for alprazolam, 221 of which were new discoveries not included in an existing drug lexicon for social media. We repeated this process for 98 drugs of abuse, of which 22 are widely-discussed drugs of abuse, building a lexicon of colloquial drug synonyms that can be used for pharmacovigilance on social media.

Aktualisasi Pemberdayaan Keluarga Dalam Pemberantasan Penyalahgunaan Narkoba

The phenomenon of abuse of narcotics and illegal drugs among the younger generation is currently increasing. The condition of deviant behavior of the younger generation can endanger the survival of our nation's development because they are increasingly fragile and devoured by addictive substances that destroy nerves. Our young generation can no longer think clearly, as a result, the assets of this strong and intelligent nation will only be a memory. The family as a micro community in society has an important role in controlling and eradicating the dangers of drugs. Actualizing the function of the family as a forum for empowerment is one of the pillars that needs to be done and therefore family resilience is the basic foundation of the strength of the sustainability of national development. The Thematic Community Service Program by LPPM UNG in 2021 is oriented to assisting the community in combating drug abuse which is currently rife in society in general. The programs that will be delivered by students will refer to assistance activities to the community to be equally resilient and responsive in eradicating drug abuse. The target of the theme is "Community Empowerment in the Eradication of Drug/Narcotics Abuse to Realize a Shining Village (Drug Clean)". then one of the strategic programs developed is to actualize the function of the family as a forum for empowerment in eradicating drug abuse. It is important to do this because through such a program it will have an effect on increasing public knowledge and being able to innovate in handling and eradicating Drug Abuse and Illegal Drugs in the Village Community. The results of the program's achievements indicate that the actualization of family empowerment through the Thematic KKN program is the participation of families and rural communities to provide support for efforts to eradicate and control drugs which in turn becomes an effective alternative solution on the one hand and as a form of achieving drug-free villages. (Shine) on the other side.