TÜRKİYE’DE AKDENİZ BÖLGESİNDE EĞİTİM GÖREN TIP ÖĞRENCİLERİNDE METİLFENİDATIN TIBBİ OLMAYAN KULLANIMI: NİTEL BİR ARAŞTIRMA

Abstract

Objective he misuse of methylphenidate is an important issue in the relevant literature. The abuse of these drugs for success, especially by high school and university students, is quite common at the international level. Young people consider these drugs as a savior in order to be successful in the exams and to sustain with their social life. It is possible that medical education is very hard and stressful for students in the world. The students feel too much pressure to succeed. So, this situation directs students towards alternatives that will reduce the pressure, stay awake and focus more. This study aims to understand the process and usage habits that direct medical students to methylphenidate. Material and Method The study was designed as a qualitative research method with an anthropological perspective. Medical students' experiences, thoughts, and observations on the illicit use of methylphenidate were collected by researcher, using the in-depth interviews. The study started with face-to-face interviews at the end of 2019. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the negotiations were completed in February 2022, after a long break. The opinions of 17 volunteer students who participated in the study were evaluated with a descriptive approach. Results According to our research findings, medical students are positive about the non-medical use of methylphenidate to save the day, despite its side effects. The use of the drug increases especially during exam periods. It is seen that drugs are as an easy alternative for students. The medicines are mostly provided from other friends who still use them. In addition, the drug is also used for weight loss. It is a fact that its effects are exaggerated and advertised among non-prescription users. The results of our research are similar with international ones. Conclusion There are very few studies on the illicit use of psychomotor stimulants in our country. The findings prove that medical students need healthy and sustainable alternatives to cope with the stress and pressure on them. It is thought that this study will be a basis for determining the long-term negative effects of misuse of the drugs and taking precautions. The research is a preliminary assessment to explore the current situation. It is clear that there is a need for more information, quantitative and qualitative data in the field.