Use of Cognitive Enhancers among students of Nigerian Tertiary Institutions
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.4314/ajtmbr.v6i1.3Abstract
Introduction: Non-medical use of pharmacological cognitive enhancers (PCE) in universities has been documented in several studies. However, there is paucity of research on this subject among Nigerian University students. We therefore aimed to assess the awareness, use and impact of PCE among medical students in a Nigerian University.
Materials and Method: A self-administered questionnaire on the awareness and use of PCE with respondents composed of 327 medical students at Delta State University, Nigeria.
Results: Of the 327 completed questionnaires, the male to female ratio of 1:0.85, with 99.1% being single. Those living on campus, off campus, family home and dual accommodation, accounted for 65.4%, 30.6%, 2.8% and 0.3% of the respondents. In total, 81.7% of the respondents are aware of the use of PCE for academic purpose. Overall, 40.1% of the respondents reported using at least one of the PCE during their study period with caffeinated beverages, energy drinks, cigarette, marijuana, and ginseng used by 82.5%, 50.4%, 3.1% and 1.5% of the respondents respectively. The motivation for using beverage drinks are increased study time, concentration and alertness. The more frequent periods of use are during examination period and study time. Most of them are self-purchased and choice of usage are mainly influenced by friends. Both sets of users reported insomnia, headache, palpitation, dizziness and fatigue as side effects. Among the respondents, 45% agreed that they will use PCE if the guaranteed of its safety, 30% rejected such privilege while the rest are indifferent.
Conclusion: Our survey showed significant association between the age, male gender and academic level and use of PCE. Our respondents used mainly caffeinated beverages and energy drink. Their choice is strongly influenced by peer pressure and the motivations are to mainly to increase reading time, concentration and alertness.
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