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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Recorded presentation

Julie A. Brevard, MPH, Sarah Lord, PhD, and Brian C. Houle, MPH. Inflexxion, Inc., 320 Needham Street, Suite 100, Newton, MA 02464, 617-332-6028, jbrevard@inflexxion.com

Non-medical use of prescription medications is a growing public health concern, particularly in college students. Studies are needed to determine reasons for use, and how beliefs and attitudes influence behaviors. This study examined attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors of students who misuse prescription opioid or stimulant medications. An anonymous online survey was advertised for two weeks to 27 colleges via a popular college networking website. Inclusion criteria were being a college student aged 18-25, and endorsing non-medical use of prescription opioids or stimulants. A total of 689 students completed the survey; data from 527 were used after validity checks were performed. Vicodin was the most misused opioid; Adderall the most misused stimulant. A majority of respondents did not have a current prescription. Common sources of prescription drugs were friends (84%), acquaintances (44%), and parents (15%). Reasons for opioid use included relaxation, fun, depression, and chronic pain. Stimulants were primarily used to improve concentration, increase alertness, get high, and control weight. Regular opioid users indicated less agitation and more ease in social interactions from the drug. Those who listed depression as a reason for use agreed more strongly with statements that opioids made them feel calmer, less impatient, and more able to interact with others. Females reported more positive experiences with stimulants than males. Regular stimulant use was associated with greater perceptions of feeling on top of things, being in control, and more easily interacting with others. Discussion will highlight how risk profiles can inform targeted prevention efforts.

Learning Objectives: At the end of the session, participants will be able to

• List five reasons why students use prescription opioid or stimulant medications non-medically.
• Describe similarities and differences in the risk portraits of college students who misuse prescription opioids or stimulants.
• Discuss the limitations and benefits of Internet surveys for sensitive research topics, such as drug use.

Keywords: College Students, Prescription Drug Use Patterns

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No

Recorded presentation