Psychoactive drug use among practicing physicians and medical students

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Pharmacology
• Public Health

Background:

• Physician and medical student drug use is a concern.
• Understanding patterns of psychoactive substance use is crucial for healthcare professionals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the prevalence and patterns of psychoactive drug use among physicians and medical students.
• To compare drug use in these groups with other healthcare professionals.

Main Methods:

• A survey was conducted in 1984-1985 on random samples of practicing physicians and medical students in a New England state.
• Response rates were 70% for physicians and 79% for students.

Main Results:

• 59% of physicians and 78% of students reported lifetime psychoactive drug use.
• Marijuana and cocaine were common for recreational use; tranquilizers and opiates for self-treatment.
• 10% of physicians reported current regular drug use, and 3% had histories of drug dependence.
• Physicians and students showed higher lifetime use rates than pharmacists and pharmacy students.

Conclusions:

• Psychoactive drug use is prevalent among physicians and medical students.
• Findings indicate a need for renewed professional education regarding the risks of drug misuse in medical fields.