Sharing and borrowing prescription medication: A survey of Irish college students

Background: Prescription medicine borrowing and sharing has received not much attention in the research literature, despite serious potential health risks. Although this behaviour is prevalent across all ages, it appears to be particularly high amongst young adults. Aims: To determine the prevalence and the characteristics of sharing and borrowing medicines amongst students in an Irish University. Method: Web survey of University College Cork 18-25-year-old undergraduates. Results: A total of 343 completed the questionnaire. A quarter (26%) reported borrowing, 20% reported sharing and 12% reported both sharing and borrowing prescription drugs, primarily to avoid the cost (37%), the inconvenience of going to a doctor (22%) and not feeling sick enough to see a medical professional (14%). Participants borrowed medicines from family (51.2%) and friends (18.2%). Those who borrowed or shared prescription drugs believed they were at a lesser risk of side effects from taking other people's medicines (p < 0.0005, χ ² test). Conclusion: Sharing and borrowing prescription drugs appear to be a common practice amongst Irish college students, who may underestimate the risks associated with taking these medicines.