Pregabalin and gabapentin abuse among university students in Jordan: A cross sectional study

Introduction: Pregabalin and gabapentin (or gabapentanoids) have been reported to be abused for potentially euphoric effects. Objectives: In this work, we conducted a descriptive, cross-sectional study among university students from Jordan utilizing a structured online questionnaire. Results: 96.1% of the participants indicated no previous or current use of gabapentanoids, while 53 (3.9%) self-reported previous or current use (ever-use) of any of both drugs. The rate of abuse was higher among males and older students’ groups. 50.9% of drug users did not obtain a valid prescription. Most abusers indicated that their use of both drugs was for non-medical reasons (39.6%), and 69.8% students used both drugs despite being aware of their adverse effects. Hypersomnia was the most reported adverse effect. However, most participants (64.2%) did not report any withdrawal symptoms upon drug discontinuation. Marijuana/hashish was the most consumed substance with gabapentanoids. Conclusions: Our results invite for further prescribed drug control and increasing the awareness against drug abuse among the youth in Jordan.