|
Citation
|
Benotsch EG, Martin AM, Koester S, Mason MJ, Jeffers AJ, Snipes DJ. Subst. Abuse 2013; 36(1): 99-105. |
|
Affiliation
|
a Virginia Commonwealth University , Department of Psychology , PO Box 842018 , Richmond , VA , 23284 , United States. |
|
Abstract
|
BACKGROUND: Over the past twenty years, there has been a dramatic increase in the non-medical use of prescription drugs (NMUPD). However, minimal attention has been given to driving under the influence of prescription drugs used non-medically.
METHODS: This study examines attitudes and characteristics that might be associated with driving while engaging in NMUPD. College students (N = 763) ages 18-25 years completed online surveys assessing demographic information, NMUPD, recreational use of other drugs, psychological variables, attitudes towards NMUPD and driving, and driving behavior.
RESULTS: Overall, 28.0% of participants reported lifetime NMUPD; 12.2% reported ever driving while engaging in NMUPD; and 7.9% reported this behavior in the past 3 months. Participants who reported engaging in NMUPD while driving were significantly more likely to report the use of alcohol, marijuana, ecstasy, cocaine, methamphetamine, ketamine, GHB, rohypnol, and mephedrone. These participants also scored higher on measures of hopelessness, impulsivity, and sensation seeking. Individuals who engaged in NMUPD while driving also reported lower perceptions of the risks of this behavior and believed that NMUPD is more common in young adults.
CONCLUSIONS: A significant percentage of college students engage in driving under the influence of prescription drugs. Public health interventions designed to increase driving safety may wish to focus attention on this type of drugged driving.
Language: en |