TRENDS IN ABUSE AND MISUSE OF PRESCRIPTION DRUGS INNIGERIA: A CALL TO ATTENTION FOR HEALTH EDUCATORS

Authors

  • H. L. Owolabi Department of Human Kinetics and Health Education, College of Science Education, Lagos State University of Education, Oto/Ijanikin, Lagos State Author
  • M. A. C. Onwuama Department of Human Kinetics and Health Education, Faculty of Education, University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos State Author
  • A. O. Omolade Department of Human Kinetics and Health Education, College of Science Education, Lagos State University of Education, Oto/Ijanikin, Lagos State Author
  • A. A. Eruosi Department of Human Kinetics and Health Education, College of Science Education, Lagos State University of Education, Oto_Ijanikin, Lagos State Author
  • O. R. Olatunde Department of Human Kinetics and Health Education, College of Science Education, Lagos State University of Education, Oto_Ijanikin, Lagos State Author

Keywords:

Abuse, Drug, Education, Misuse, Prescription

Abstract

Difficulty of utilizing drugs or chemicals for the purpose of treatment and relief from discomfort has led to misuse and abuse
of medical drugs which has become a concern. Consequently, urgent attention is required from the society since its dimension
has necessitated banning of some pharmaceutical drugs by the Nigeria Federal Ministry of Health in order to stop patronage
by drug abusers, thereby denying those in need of the drugs legitimately access to treatment. Banned importation of selected
drugs such as pain killer tramadol, cough syrups containing codeine has not decreased level of drug abuse and constitutes
challenges not only to the government but also health organizations, health promoters and the society at large. This article
provides insight to emerging trend in the abuse and misuse of medical drugs within the country with Opioids as the second
most commonly abused drugs. This article explored three main prescription drugs commonly misused including reasons and
consequences of abuse. Also, discussed is influence of social media, information and communication technology (ICT) on the
use of prescription drugs including the roles of the Health Ministry and Agencies for drug protection. The paper explored the
roles of health educators in the prevention of misuse and abuse of prescription drugs; and therefore, concluded that there is
need to intensify drug education an aspect of health education to curb the abuse and misuse of prescription drugs using various
strategies and media of health communication. It was recommended that routine checks at various points where suspected
drugs could be abused such as pharmacy, clubs and hotels. Provision of valid identity cards to all residents in the country
including minors to minimize the rate of drug abuse and that Nigerian Government should work closely with the internet
service providers of different telecommunication agencies to restrict certain information from teenagers. 

Published

2025-08-28

Issue

Vol. 7 No. 2 (2025)

Section

Articles