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

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.