Non-medical use of prescription drugs amongst University students : a quantitative study

Abstract

Non-medical use of prescription drugs (NMUPD) is increasing worldwide, and emerging adults are seen as an at-risk group for NMUPD. In Malta there is lack of research and data in this this particular area, especially concerning University of Malta students. The aim of this dissertation was to gather statistical data on prevalence rates and patterns of use of prescription drugs and NMUPD, age of first use, sources of prescription drugs, motivations of use, and prescription drug use with alcohol. Also, relationship with demographic variables such as gender, age, district, civil status, employment and year of study were examined. Data for this quantitative research was collected by means of an anonymous online questionnaire. Data was then analysed using IBM SPSS software and the chi-square test was used to test for any correlations with demographic variables. 7% of the students reported lifetime non-medical use of opioids, 3.5% of the students reported lifetime non-medical use of CNS depressants and 2.8% of the students reported lifetime non-medical use of CNS stimulants. Opioids are the most popular types of prescription drugs, both when taken medically and non-medically (without a prescription). Gender was the most dominant variable, with the overall of findings indicating that female students made more use of drugs non-medically than male students. Moreover, Maltese students still have higher than average rates of mixing alcohol with pills when compared to E.U. students. This dissertation brings a more detailed description of the prevalence rates and patterns of use and what affects NMUPD.