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The Perceptions of Health Care Providers on the Current Therapeutic Utility of Codeine Containing Cough Syrups in Askira-Uba Local Government Area of Borno State Nigeria
Uthman Garba Sadiq,
Danjuma Charles Uba
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 2-1, March 2017
Pages:
1-6
Received:
17 July 2016
Accepted:
19 July 2016
Published:
14 February 2017
DOI:
10.11648/j.apn.s.2017020201.11
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Abstract: The non-medical consumption of codeine containing cough syrups (CCCS) in some communities of Northern Nigeria has become a subject of public concern of recent, largely due to its potential health hazards on the users and socio-economic impacts on the Society. The following work studied the drug prescribers’ and dispensers’ perceptions on the usage of CCCS within Askira Uba Local Government Area (LGA) of Borno State of Nigeria. The work aimed at understanding some health care providers’ views of the therapeutic relevance of CCCS against the background of its abuse in Askira/Uba LGA. A questionnaire based survey was conducted within the study area. Health care providers, categorised into prescribers and dispensers were recruited and administered structured questionnaire. The questionnaire basically addressed demography of health care providers and socio-political factors surrounding the therapeutic utility of CCCS. Data obtained were analysed using simple descriptive and inferential statics. The majority of the prescribers and dispensers were male of six to ten years of practice. The majority of patent medicine vendors did not support the idea of transferring CCCS from the Over-The-Counter (OTC) list to the Prescription-only-Medicine (PoM) list as against the perceptions of the other dispensers (pharmacists) as well as that of the prescribers. On the other hand, the notion of putting a ban on CCCS was supported by the majority of prescribers while the majority of the dispensers felt that a ban might not be necessary. Primary health care providers within Askira Uba LGA of Borno State have supported the idea of reclassifying CCCS from the OTC category to the PoM category with a view of controlling its distribution.
Abstract: The non-medical consumption of codeine containing cough syrups (CCCS) in some communities of Northern Nigeria has become a subject of public concern of recent, largely due to its potential health hazards on the users and socio-economic impacts on the Society. The following work studied the drug prescribers’ and dispensers’ perceptions on the usage ...
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Emerging Perspectives on Drugs of Abuse: A Focus on Gadagi Consumption in Kano, Nigeria
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 2-1, March 2017
Pages:
7-14
Received:
24 September 2016
Accepted:
30 September 2016
Published:
14 February 2017
DOI:
10.11648/j.apn.s.2017020201.12
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Abstract: This article investigated the consumption of gadagi (alysicarpus ovalifloius) in Kano, Nigeria. Appealing to many, especially of gullible youths, its emergence and popularization were traced. Due to its popularization, individuals within the neighborhoods become prone to gadagi and vulnerable to some masked risks and deviant acts. Using anomie, availability-proneness and differential association theories, the widespread use of gadagi was contextualized. The possible connections between its emergence/popularization and its derivable benefits, availability and easy access, the rapid flow of information about it and its attractive force to consumers (mostly youths in labor-intensive or physically-challenging jobs) were also explored. Simple random and stratified sampling techniques were used to select participants for the study. Five hundred (500) questionnaires were administered, and twenty (20) key informants were interviewed. Phytochemical analysis of gadagi was also conducted. The results show widespread consumption among single and the married persons aged 15 to 30 years. The preliminary phytochemical screening reveals the presence of stimulating chemicals in gadagi capable of igniting pleasure-seeking behavior that can lead to the risk of addiction. Likewise, the emergence of its consumption and popularization is also related to the community acceptance gadagi has, and the fact that the chief driving group of its consumers – commercial motorcyclists – is mobile implying that they are always on the move transporting passengers. It’s availability in numerous locations and unsanctioned production and sale has also made its use attractive.
Abstract: This article investigated the consumption of gadagi (alysicarpus ovalifloius) in Kano, Nigeria. Appealing to many, especially of gullible youths, its emergence and popularization were traced. Due to its popularization, individuals within the neighborhoods become prone to gadagi and vulnerable to some masked risks and deviant acts. Using anomie, ava...
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The Influence of Substance Abuse on Youths’ Prospects in Nigeria and the Way Forward
Maikano Madaki,
Aminu Mohammed Dukku
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 2-1, March 2017
Pages:
15-20
Received:
24 September 2016
Accepted:
30 September 2016
Published:
14 February 2017
DOI:
10.11648/j.apn.s.2017020201.13
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Abstract: The youth today, live with two contrasting facts or social realities. Glowing potentials and prospects on the one hand, enormous challenges on the other. The first social fact reflect existing unlimited accomplishments and prospects in form of growing educational pursuits, surging rates of wider internet access, computer and IT services utilization, etc. The enormous and ever growing problems in form of unemployment, poverty, insecurity, crime/deviance, electoral malpractice and drug and substance abuse render the laudable accomplishments punctured in the second instance. This article amplifies the strategic position the youth occupy in every society, conceptual explanations were offered, relevant review undertaken under which a schema of drug use behavior is presented, with the growing problems facing the youth, especially drug and substance abuse, amidst potentials and prospects unveiled. Other sections dwell on the general approach to the way forward and a conclusion and summary of the points identified therein.
Abstract: The youth today, live with two contrasting facts or social realities. Glowing potentials and prospects on the one hand, enormous challenges on the other. The first social fact reflect existing unlimited accomplishments and prospects in form of growing educational pursuits, surging rates of wider internet access, computer and IT services utilization...
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Prevalence of Psychiatric Symptoms and Correlation Between Psychiatric Domain of ASI and Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale Among Patients with Substance Use Disorders in Northeastern Nigeria
Yerima Mukhtar Mohammed,
Onifade Peter Olutunde,
Ibrahim Abdu Wakawa,
Pindar Sadique Kwajaffa,
Jidda Mohammed Said,
Musami Umar Baba,
Wakil Musa Abba
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 2-1, March 2017
Pages:
21-26
Received:
25 September 2016
Accepted:
30 September 2016
Published:
14 February 2017
DOI:
10.11648/j.apn.s.2017020201.14
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Abstract: The use of psychoactive substances is a common and ubiquitous behavior globally with considerable burden, mortality and morbidity. There is considerable degree of psycho-social, psychiatric and medical problems associated with the abuse of psychoactive substances. Few studies have examined the prevalence of psychiatric symptoms among patients with substance use disorders. Aims and Objectives: This study examined the prevalence of psychiatric symptoms and the concurrence of the Addiction Severity Index (ASI) psychiatric domain with Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS). Methodology: a sample of 142 participants was selected purposively and administered the ASI and the BPRS after informed consent procedures. Results: The mean age of participants was 31 years (SD =8) and males were predominant (96.5%). The two most commonly used substances were Opioids (other than heroine) and Cannabis in 60.6% and 55.6% respectively. Twenty six (18.3%) patients reported depressive symptoms. Anxiety symptoms, Poor concentration, and suicidal thoughts were reported, respectively, by 30(21.1%), 17(12.0%), and 15(10.6%) patients. There was a strong positive correlation (r=0.862, p< .001) between the ASI psychiatric domain and the BPRS. Conclusion: participants had some symptoms of psychiatric disorders and there was a strong positive correlation between the ASI psychiatric domain and the BPRS.
Abstract: The use of psychoactive substances is a common and ubiquitous behavior globally with considerable burden, mortality and morbidity. There is considerable degree of psycho-social, psychiatric and medical problems associated with the abuse of psychoactive substances. Few studies have examined the prevalence of psychiatric symptoms among patients with ...
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Cognitive Impairment/Dementia in HIV Patients in a Faith Based Clinic
Piwuna C. G.,
Piwuna T. O.,
Obindo J. T.,
Tungchama F. P.,
Bankat M. A.
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 2-1, March 2017
Pages:
27-30
Received:
28 September 2016
Accepted:
30 September 2016
Published:
14 February 2017
DOI:
10.11648/j.apn.s.2017020201.15
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Abstract: Human Immuno-deficiency (HIV) Virus is usually among other disorders associated with cognitive impairment and dementia adding to the burden of the disease in affected individuals and the quality of care. A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out in a non-governmental organization caring for patients with the disease in Jos, North Central Nigeria. A total of 220 patients attending the Faith Alive Clinic in Jos were randomly selected and studied using instruments such as the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) Modified – HIV Associated Dementia Scale (M-HDS) and the Center for Epidemiologic Study Depression Scale – Revised (CES-D). Most of the patients were female (60.9%), male 31.9% with 48.6% married. Analysis of the different subscales of M-HAD the MMSE reveals significant impairment Psychomotor, memory and recall and the construction functions of the subjects P ≤ 0.000. The prevalence of cognitive impairment/dementia in the study population was 70.9% on M-HDS and 35% on MMSE. The implication of these findings is that clinicians should have reasonable index of suspicion when managing patients that are HIV Sero-positive to be able to identify patients with cognitive problems.
Abstract: Human Immuno-deficiency (HIV) Virus is usually among other disorders associated with cognitive impairment and dementia adding to the burden of the disease in affected individuals and the quality of care. A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out in a non-governmental organization caring for patients with the disease in Jos, North Central ...
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Tramadol Abuse Among Patients Attending An Addiction Clinic in North-Eastern Nigeria: Outcome of a Four Year Retrospective Study
Ibrahim A. W.,
Yerima M. M.,
Pindar S. K.,
Onyencho V. C.,
Ahmed H. K.,
Machina B. K.,
Shehu S.,
Rabbebe I. B.,
Wakil M. A.
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 2-1, March 2017
Pages:
31-37
Received:
28 September 2016
Accepted:
30 September 2016
Published:
14 February 2017
DOI:
10.11648/j.apn.s.2017020201.16
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Abstract: The 21st century Nigeria has witnessed changing trends in the patterns of psychoactive substance use with Tramadol HCl emerging as a candidate drug in the North-eastern region of the country. This study assessed the prevalence, patterns and the reasons behind the sustained use of Tramadol in a sub-population of drug users. This is a retrospective cross-sectional study in which socio-demographic, clinical and drug-related data were extracted from the clinical records of 237 drug users attending the addiction clinic of Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Maiduguri, North-eastern Nigeria. The prevalence of Tramadol abuse was 54.4% [n=129] and 78 [60.5%, 95% C.I. = 54.1 - 65.7] met the ICD-10 diagnostic criteria for Tramadol dependence. Over 93% of Tramadol users were males and 87 [67.4%, 95% C.I. = 59.9 - 73.4] were in the 18 to 37 years age bracket. Over 67% used Tramadol in combination with other psychoactive substances while 65.1% [95% C.I. = 50.7 - 81.4] used multiple daily doses. Over 91% of the subjects obtained the drug without prescriptions and 12.4% [95% C.I. = 7.5 - 16.8] were first initiated to the drugs by prescriptions from health professionals. The commonest primary reasons for continuous usage were; to relieve tiredness [28.7%, 95% C.I.= 25.4 - 31.2] and to prolong the time of sexual intercourse [22.5%, 95% C.I. = 20.1 - 24.7]. Considering the addictive potentials of Tramadol, there is the need for; psychoeducational programmes for adolescents and young adults, rational prescriptions by clinicians and enhancing the operational capacities of regulatory agencies.
Abstract: The 21st century Nigeria has witnessed changing trends in the patterns of psychoactive substance use with Tramadol HCl emerging as a candidate drug in the North-eastern region of the country. This study assessed the prevalence, patterns and the reasons behind the sustained use of Tramadol in a sub-population of drug users. This is a retrospective c...
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Glia and Addiction: A Review
Alhassan Abdulwahab,
Sale Ibrahim Alhaji,
Lawan Ibrahim,
Uthman Garba Sadiq
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 2-1, March 2017
Pages:
38-41
Received:
14 November 2016
Accepted:
19 November 2016
Published:
14 February 2017
DOI:
10.11648/j.apn.s.2017020201.17
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Abstract: Glia (including astrocytes, microglia and oligodendrocytes), which constitute the majority of cells in the brain were thought to function as passive supportive cells, bringing nutrients to and removing wastes from the neurons. Glia cells have almost the same receptors as neurons, secrete neurotransmitters, neurotrophic and neuroinflammatory factors and are intimately involved in synaptic plasticity. Glia has been found to have multiple functions in eventually all systems of the body (CNS, CVS, GIT etc) Considering the multiple functions of glia, and because glia are the most numerous cells in the brain, it is not surprising that psychostimulants affect their activity. Thus, this review is focused on works done to reveal the important roles played by glia in addiction and the possibility of manipulating the activity of glia as a target in the development of pharmacotherapeutic agents for treating disorders related to psychostimulants.
Abstract: Glia (including astrocytes, microglia and oligodendrocytes), which constitute the majority of cells in the brain were thought to function as passive supportive cells, bringing nutrients to and removing wastes from the neurons. Glia cells have almost the same receptors as neurons, secrete neurotransmitters, neurotrophic and neuroinflammatory factors...
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A Survey of the Usage and Users of Codeine Containing Cough Syrups in Maiduguri Nigeria
Garba Uthman S.,
Sholey Zakama G.,
Maryam Modu B.,
Usama Bugaje U.
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 2-1, March 2017
Pages:
42-46
Received:
9 January 2017
Accepted:
12 January 2017
Published:
14 February 2017
DOI:
10.11648/j.apn.s.2017020201.18
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Abstract: The Directorate of Narcotic and Controlled substances of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and control (NAFDAC) disclosed that a large number of Nigerians are abusing the prescription of codeine. The following work studied this illicit drug utilization in Maiduguri metropolitan Area of Borno State of Nigeria, with the aim of understanding the socio-political factors surrounding the menace in the Society. A questionnaire based survey was conducted within the study area. Volunteers numbering 210 were recruited from consented premises of pharmacies and drug shops within the Local Government Area. The questionnaire basically addressed demography of users of Codeine Containing Cough Syrups (CCCS) and socio-political factors surrounding the usage. Data obtained were analyzed using simple descriptive and inferential statics. Of the 210 users of CCCS 95.2% were males and mainly (71.0%) in their twenties. Majority of the respondents are either students (39.0%) or self employed (23.3%). The predominant educational qualifications are secondary school certificate (51.9%) and diploma certificate (11.9%). Most (92.4%) of the respondents perceived that they administer CCCS for medical purposes mainly to increase wellness. Associated feelings include; ‘feeling high’ (37.1%), ‘sleepiness and forgetting worries’ (6.7%) and calmness in the form of ‘decrease fighting urge’ (4.3%) and ‘decrease hyperactivity’ (2.9%). About 64.3% of the respondents admitted that they cannot go through a day without taking CCCS. The most popular feelings whenever CCCS is not taken includes: ‘sickness’ (17.6%), ‘not happy’ (14.8%), ‘sleepy or weakness’ (15.9%). Students and youths withing the age bracket of 20 to 30 years constituteed a sizable majority of CCCS users. The law surrounding the use of CCCS seems to have little impact on the usage seemingly due to poor enforcement, assuch agencies responsible for enforcing these laws sould be envigorated. A well-established surveillance system and target intervention programs are needed given the potential long-term negative outcomes of use of CCCS and other addictive PoM.
Abstract: The Directorate of Narcotic and Controlled substances of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and control (NAFDAC) disclosed that a large number of Nigerians are abusing the prescription of codeine. The following work studied this illicit drug utilization in Maiduguri metropolitan Area of Borno State of Nigeria, with the aim of unde...
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