Association of Prescription Drug Misuse with Risky Motor Vehicle Behaviors among Low-Income Young Women

Abstract

Background

The purpose of this study was to examine the association between prescription drug misuse and risky motor vehicle behaviors among 16–24-year-old women.

Methods

A survey was conducted on misuse of 4 classes of prescription drugs (pain relievers, tranquilizers, stimulants, and sedatives) and past-month risky motor vehicle behaviors among these women during 2008–2010.

Results

Overall, 47.7% (1408/2952) of women reported risky motor vehicle behavior(s) in the past month. Misuse of 1 or more of the 4 classes was 30.1% (lifetime), 15.0% (past year), and 6.7% (past month). Misuse of 1 or more of these prescription drug classes was associated with risky motor vehicle behaviors in their lifetime (odds ratio [OR]: 1.83, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.54–2.18), past year (OR: 2.25, 95% CI: 1.80–2.83), and past month (OR: 2.70, 95% CI: 1.94–3.78).

Conclusions

The current finding that misuse of 1 or more of the 4 prescription drug classes, irrespective of when this last occurred, is associated with risky motor vehicle behaviors may help formulate awareness programs.

Keywords

Misuse motor vehicle prescription drug seatbelt use young women

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