The research found that among the 1,755 students studied, more
than 500 reported NMUPD, and of those, a significant number experienced
negative sexual events. More than 14% of the students who abused
prescription drugs experienced regretted sex, and among the female
students, 7.1% reported being victims of sexual assault.
‘Abuse of prescription drugs (anxiolytics/sedatives) by college students plays a role in negative sexual events such as sexual assault and regretted sex.’
Significantly, the only prescription drugs associated with regretted sex and sexual assault were anxiolytics/sedatives.
"The responsibility for rape or any sexual assault always falls
squarely with the perpetrator," Parks says. "This study shows NMUPD,
particularly anxiolytics/sedatives, can have similar effects as alcohol,
including slowed decision-making and physical coordination, which can
decrease the ability to recognize danger or fend off a potential
perpetrator."
The study did not find that nonmedical use of opioid analgesics or stimulants was associated with negative sexual events.
"NMUPD is an increasing public health concern, particularly among
emerging and young adults," Parks said. "Given the results of this
study, parents and college administrators should be concerned about the
relationship we found between nonmedical use of anxiolytics/sedatives
and negative sexual events, and find ways to educate students about the
potential dangers."
Source: Eurekalert
