Introduction: The epidemic of substance abuse (SA), which was previously common in Western populations, is now prevalent in India and is increasing, particularly among adolescents. Changing cultural values, increasing economic stress, and dwindling supportive bonds are leading to initiation into substance use. Random urine drug testing (UDT) is considered useful and is warranted for continued employment.
Aim: To determine the pattern and extent of SA among patients and screen the suspect cases using UDT.
Materials and methods: This was a prospective observational study. Subjects with a history of current substance use or suspected use for >10–30 days, seeking treatment for any medical reason related to substance use as diagnosed by the physician or psychiatrist, belonging to any age-group or gender, were included. The urine samples were collected and run on the multidrug cassettes to determine the results.
Results: A total of 226 subjects were included, with 98.23% being male. The analysis for substance abuse was conducted using urine samples, and the results showed that the maximum number of subjects tested positive for cannabis/marijuana. The most frequent combination of substances abused was alcohol + tobacco + cannabis/marijuana (THC).
Conclusion: According to the opinions presented in this study, the majority of patients who used THC and other psychoactive drugs were associated with stress, tiredness, and fatigue, which can impair judgment and coordination. There is a need for education, law enforcement, and frequent drug testing to regulate the supply of psychoactive chemicals. To increase acceptance and enhance results, it is crucial to incorporate policies and initiatives.
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