Evaluation of knowledge, prevalence and effects of opioid abuse among undergraduate students in a public university

ABSTRACT

In Nigeria currently, opioids are the second most widely used substances among young individuals after cannabis. A review of several literatures reported the prevalence of drug abuse, especially tramadol and codeine, among Nigerian students as 20% - 40%. The aim of this study was to determine the knowledge, prevalence, factors and effects associated with opioid abuse among final year undergraduate students. A cross- sectional study was carried out at a public University. A validated questionnaire was self-administered to 395 respondents. Data obtained were organized and analysed with Microsoft Excel and SPSS version 25. Descriptive statistics was done; frequencies and proportions were used to summarize variables of interest. Chi square test was done for association between variables and opioid abuse. Ethical considerations were observed. A response rate of 98.48% was obtained from the respondents. A total of 101 (26%) respondents used opioids. The most popular opioids abused among the respondents are codeine and tramadol (60 and 63 respondents respectively). A total of 5 respondents used heroin, 3 use pentazocine while only 1 respondent uses oxycodone and morphine. It was observed that majority of the users were males (76%). Peer pressure was the major factor, effects of opioid abuse observed were drowsiness, absence from lectures, examinations and altered daily activities (eating, sleeping and mood). The study revealed a good knowledge of opioid drugs and a high prevalence of opioid abuse among final year students. Tramadol and codeine were the most abused opioids among the respondents. Major effects of opioid abuse were alteration in daily functions and absence from academic activities.