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Published on: November 11, 2013
Adolescent tramadol use and abuse in Egypt
Medhat M Bassiony1, Ghada M Salah El-Deen, Usama Yousef
1Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University , Egypt.
The American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse
|April 11, 2015
Summary
Tramadol abuse is a growing concern among Egyptian adolescents, with 8.8% of students reporting use. Many users experienced drug-related problems, highlighting the need for further research into adolescent substance abuse.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Adolescent Medicine
- Substance Abuse Research
Background:
- Tramadol abuse liability is underestimated, with emerging evidence of abuse and dependence, particularly among adolescents.
- Health and social consequences of tramadol abuse are significant, yet poorly studied in Egypt.
- This study addresses the knowledge gap regarding tramadol use and abuse among Egyptian school students.
Purpose of the Study:
- To estimate the prevalence of tramadol use and abuse among school students in Egypt.
- To identify associated correlates of tramadol use and abuse in this population.
- To understand the patterns and consequences of adolescent tramadol consumption.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 204 students aged 13-18 years from six schools in Zagazig, Egypt.
- Screening for tramadol use included The Drug Use Disorders Identification Test (DUDIT) and urine drug screens.
- Data analysis focused on prevalence, age of onset, co-substance use, and associated risk factors.
Main Results:
- The prevalence of tramadol use was 8.8%, with an average age of onset at 16.5 years.
- 83% of users consumed tramadol alone; 17% used it with alcohol and cannabis.
- Two-thirds initiated tramadol after tobacco, over one-third had drug-related problems, and 6% showed dependence. Older age, male gender, and smoking were associated with tramadol use.
Conclusions:
- Tramadol use is prevalent among Egyptian adolescents, with significant rates of drug-related problems and dependence.
- Tramadol may act as a gateway drug, necessitating further investigation into its role in adolescent substance abuse.
- Longitudinal, population-based studies are crucial to fully understand tramadol's impact and inform prevention strategies.
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