Evaluation of Cannabis, Ecstasy and Methamphetamine Use in Pharmacy Students: Results of Urinalysis

Overview

Asurvey on the use of illegal drugs was conducted in a group of university students in the Czech Republic. The evaluation of use of addictive substances was performed through toxicological urinalysis.

Method:
Urine specimens were anonymously collected from third year students of Charles University in Prague, Faculty of Pharmacy in Hradec Kralove. Cannabinoids (THC), methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and methamphetamine (MET) were searched for by simple, one-step, immunochromatographic assay for the rapid, qualitative detection. Preliminary positive analytical results were then confirmed by gas chromatography/ mass spectrometry.

Results:
150 urine specimens were collected, 67 students refused to participate in the study. The average age of students was 21.7 years (range: 20–29). The number of females was higher (74.7 %) than that of males (25.3 %). The presence of THC was detected in 6 samples, no evidence of MDMA and MET was found. When comparing males and females, a significant difference was estimated in the use of THC (chi-square test, p = 0.0009).

Conclusion:
According to results of urinalysis the pattern of cannabis use in the group of pharmacy students seems to be irregular.

Key words:
drugs of abuse, university students, urinalysis.