Prevalence and Correlates of Prescription Drug Misuse in a Nationwide Population Survey in Taiwan

Prescription drug misuse (PDM) is a critical mental health issue relating to psychiatric morbidity. This study investigated the prevalence of PDM and its associated psychopathology and psychosocial factors in the general population in Taiwan. The survey randomly selected a representative sample >15 year-olds using the stratified proportional randomization method. The measurements included demographic variables, previous experience with PDM, self-rated physical and mental health, health self-efficacy, risk factors for suicidality, and psychological distress. The weighted one-year prevalence of PDM was 8.5% ( = 180) among 2126 participants. Those with psychological distress and lifetime suicide ideation (23.3%) or suicide attempts (5.0%) were significantly associated with PDM. PDM was also prevalent among those with poorer self-rated health and lower self-efficacy. Insomnia (OR = 1.52), depression (OR = 1.77), and low self-efficacy (OR = 2.29) had higher odds of PDM after adjustment in the logistic regression model. Individuals who misused prescription drugs had a higher prevalence of psychological distress and suicidality and lower levels of self-rated health. Prescription drug misuse problems should be screened for early prevention when prescribing medications for people with insomnia, depression, or lower perceived health beliefs or conditions.