Clinical and psychological characteristics of propofol abusers in Korea: a survey of propofol abuse in 38, non-healthcare professionals.
10.4097/kjae.2015.68.6.586
- Author:
Eun Jung KIM
1
;
Seon Hwa KIM
;
Yang Jin HYUN
;
Yeon Keun NOH
;
Ho Sang JUNG
;
Soon Young HAN
;
Chan hye PARK
;
Byung Moon CHOI
;
Gyu Jeong NOH
Author Information
1. Korea Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, Cheongju, Korea.
- Publication Type:Original Article
- Keywords:
Abuse;
General population;
Propofol
- MeSH:
Controlled Substances;
Surveys and Questionnaires;
Demography;
Euphoria;
International Agencies;
Korea*;
Pleasure;
Propofol*;
Substance Withdrawal Syndrome
- From:Korean Journal of Anesthesiology
2015;68(6):586-593
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: The aim of this study is to investigate the characteristics of propofol abuse based on the results of a survey analysis of abusers among non-healthcare professionals in Korea. METHODS: Thirty-eight propofol abusers were questioned between October and December 2010, and were enrolled and voluntarily participated in a structured survey consisting of an interview and completing a previously prepared questionnaire. The questionnaire was divided into three distinct parts: part 1 dealt with the history of propofol abuse; part 2 highlighted the problems caused by propofol abuse; and part 3 enquired regarding demographics of abusers. RESULTS: Thirty-one (81.6%) of the 38 interviewees abused propofol for more than one year. During the last 12 months, 34 (89.0%) received propofol at two or three times a week. The minimum and maximum amounts of propofol (median, range) administered each time were 500 (100, 1000) and 2000 (500, 4000) mg, respectively. Stress relief and the maintenance of a sense of well-being were quoted the most important reasons for the first-time administration of propofol and its subsequent abuse, respectively. The majority of abusers (36.0, 97.3%) reported a sense of pleasure or euphoria at the time of their propofol injection. Withdrawal symptoms occurred in five abusers (13.2%). Thirteen (36.1%) reported disruptions in their work life. None of the respondents had previously admitted to and or reported abuse of any other controlled substances. CONCLUSIONS: These results provided reference data for the regulation of propofol in Korea as a controlled substance and may also be of interest to international agencies in other countries.
