Self-medication and consumption of energy drinks in students from medical school and other faculties, Universidad del Azuay 2013-2014

Abstract

Objective: Compare self-medication and consumption of energy drinks in students from medical school and other faculties of Universidad del Azuay

Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study on a simple of 502 students was conducted, 251 were from medical school (population) and 251 from other faculties; samples randomized in a population of 5800 students in a proportion to the number of members of each faculty. The data were obtained by means of a self-administered quetionnaire, and were analyzed in measures of central tendency, and frecuency tables. The comparisons were done using Chi-square test of Independence, taking as significant p value less 0.05.

Results: From the study group (502 students), 53.5% were women; the average age was 21 (DS ± 2,83), 94.1% were single. The group of medical students and other faculties were 21 as average age (p 0,081). The percentage of women was similar in both groups (56,6% y 50,6%, p 0,179). 96.4% and 98% of medical students and other faculties respectively, cinsume some type of stimulant (p 0,278). The stimulant drug consumption (alertex, despertol, ritalin) was 52.2% among medical students and 37.5% in other faculties (p <0,001). The consumption of stimulating beverages was 92 a 94% (p 0,380). In medical students, 80% experienced adverse effects, and 73% (p 0,027) in other faculties.

Conclusion: Data regarding self-medication and consumption of stimulants in students from Universidad del Azuay is similar to other studies. Medical students consume more stimulanting tan the other faculties.