Patterns of drug use in a sample of 200 young drug users in London

Abstract

A cross-sectional analysis of baseline data collected during a secondary prevention intervention study was conducted to describe patterns of drug use in a non-treatment sample of young drug users recruited in ten further-education colleges across inner London. Participants were 200 young people who were either weekly cannabis users and/or who had used stimulant drugs within the previous three months. Cannabis was the most widely used drug, more so than tobacco and alcohol, while stimulant drugs were less widely used, and other drugs only rarely. Patterns of heavy consumption, most notably of cannabis, were also reported.

Although only a small proportion (9%) of the sample reported dissatisfaction with their drug use, half (53%) had previously made, were currently making, or were contemplating risk-reduction changes to their drug use. Interactional problems, directly attributed by the young people themselves to their drug use were widespread and various, as were minor levels of dependence. Proximity to heroin use and involvement in drug selling were also identified. Data collected during intervention studies can also be studied separately for their broader epidemiological worth. Reports of pleasure and satisfaction with drug use may obscure related problems of varying degrees of severity, with which they may co-exist. Further, more sensitive, investigation of associated problems and harms is now required.