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研究
Opioid use among Nigerian students: Exploring knowledge gaps and preventive strategies
Abdullahi Adeyemi Adegoke
1,2
Maryam Tariq
3
Syed Muhammad
4
Malik Olatunde Oduoye
5*
Maryam Imam
6
Omotayo Faith Olanrewaju
7
John Adole Inalegwu
8
Abisola Motunrayo Ojebola
9
Samuel Chinonso Ubechu
10

1 Department of Pharmacy, Iwo College of Health Science and Technology, Iwo Osun State

2 Department of Pharmacognosy, University of Ibadan, Ibadan Nigeria

3 Department of Medicine, Aziz Fatima Medical and Dental College, Faisalabad

4 Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Farooqia College of Pharmacy, Mysuru

5 Department of Research, The Medical Research Circle (MedReC), Goma

6 Divison of Epidemiology and Social Sciences, Institute for Health and Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

7 Department of Pharmacy, University of Nigeria Nsukka

8 Department of Paediatrics, Federal Medical Centre Azare, Bauchi State

9 Faculty of Clinical Sciences, Obafemi Awolowo University

10 Department of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, Yale University



INNOSC Theranostics and Pharmacological Sciences 2025, 8(1),58-2025-01-02 23:59:59; https://doi.org/10.36922/itps.3894
Submitted07 Jul 2024
Revised07 Sept 2024
Accepted28 Nov 2024
Published02 Jan 2025
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Abdullahi Adeyemi Adegoke ,Maryam Tariq ,Syed Muhammad ,Malik Olatunde Oduoye ,Maryam Imam ,Omotayo Faith Olanrewaju ,John Adole Inalegwu ,Abisola Motunrayo Ojebola ,Samuel Chinonso Ubechu . (2025). Opioid use among Nigerian students: Exploring knowledge gaps and preventive strategies. INNOSC Theranostics and Pharmacological Sciences , 8(1), itps3894. https://doi.org/10.36922/itps.3894
Abstract

The increasing rate of opioid consumption among Nigerian students is alarming. Despite the therapeutic benefits of opioids, their excessive use could be detrimental. Exploring knowledge gaps and implementing preventive strategies are necessary to curb opioid misuse among Nigerian students. This review aimed to identify the prevalence estimates of non-prescribed opioid use among Nigerian students and explore the cultural and societal factors favoring opioid and other drug use in this population. It further aimed to provide and discuss strategies that could offer effective and long-lasting solutions for Nigerian policymakers to curb opioid use among Nigerian students. A systematic search strategy identified relevant studies from databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar using keywords such as opioid misuse, students, Nigeria, prevention strategies, and opioid use disorder. Articles on the prevalence rates, associated factors, and preventive measures were extracted. The findings revealed a high prevalence of opioid use among Nigerian students, particularly in the southwestern (7.87%) and northeastern (6.57%) parts of Nigeria. Approximately 4.6 million Nigerians, constituting 4.7% of the population, have used opioids for non-medical purposes. Tramadol and codeine are the most commonly misused opioids. Cultural practices and belief systems often impact the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of opioid use among students. Efforts to prevent and control opioid misuse in Nigeria should focus on effective coordination among students. Health-promotion measures and specific protection should be promoted alongside early diagnosis, prompt treatment, and rehabilitation of affected individuals.

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