Evaluation of the use of psychotropic drugs resulting from the Covid-19 pandemic in pharmacy students from a University Center

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the incidence of the use of psychotropic medications resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic among university students of the pharmacy course of a University Center. Methods: This is a cross-sectional quantitative research carried out with 147 academics of both sexes. The diagnosis of mental disorder and the use of medication were evaluated through a virtual questionnaire using the Google Forms platform in the period of August 2022. The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee. Results: Of the 147 academics surveyed, 33.1% described themselves as having an anxious mood and 25.1% as having intellectual difficulties. Starting for an effective diagnosis, 57% of pharmacy students have a diagnosis of mental disorder attested by a health professional and only 16.4% use medication for treatment. Among the most used drugs, Fluoxetine, Amitriptyline and Alprazolam stand out. The most common adverse effects were nervousness, insomnia, daytime sleepiness and nausea. Conclusion: Pharmacy students triggered and/or potentiated mental disorders due to the isolation of the SARS-Cov-2 pandemic. Prevailing non-adherence to a pharmacological treatment, even with a diagnosis of a professional. The results showed disorders that, if left untreated, can last throughout life and affect students who will be future professionals.