Document Type : Research Articles
Authors
1
Pharmacological and Diagnostic Research Center, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Ahilyyia Amman University, Amman 19328, Jordan.
2
Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Balqa Applied University, Al-Salt 19117, Jordan.
3
INTI International University, Nilai, Malaysia.
4
Department of Pharmacy, Al-Zaytoonah University of Jordan, Amman 11733, Jordan.
5
Department of Applied Pharmaceutical Sciences and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, 108568Isra University, Amman, Jordan.
6
Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Aqaba University of Techonology, Aqaba, Jordan.
Abstract
Background: Water-pipe smoking, popularly known as “hookah” or “shisha,” is a widespread social activity in the Middle East, involving the use of a water-filtered device to vaporize flavored tobacco. A concerning trend has emerged as individuals add various drugs to the tobacco mixture, complicating the health implications. Aims: This study aimed to explore the prevalence, demographic factors, and motivations behind drug mixing with tobacco in shisha among university students in Jordan. Methods: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, a structured questionnaire was used to collect data on participants’ demographics, shisha smoking habits, drug mixing practice and the motivations behind it. Four hundred and sixty-nine (469) students, aged 18-30 years, including medical and non-medical students, from two universities in Jordan participated in this study. Results: Approximately 18% of participants reported mixing drugs with tobacco in shisha, with paracetamol being the predominant choice (80%). Motivations varied, with 42% seeking euphoric effects, 46% a relaxing experience, and 12% a sedative outcome. Males (73%) showed a higher frequency of drug mixing compared to females (27%). In addition, non-medical reported mixing drugs with the tobacco of water-pipe more than medical students. Conclusions: This study provides valuable insights into the complex phenomenon of drug mixing with tobacco in water-pipe smoking among university students in Jordan. The findings highlight the need for further research on clinical implications and interventions to address this emerging trend.
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