ABSTRACT

Background: Caffeine and stimulant use during exams are prevalent among students. Their use impact academic performance and health. Understanding their extent of use is crucial.

Objectives: To assess the extent, knowledge and influence of caffeine and stimulant use among UNIBEN pharmacy students.

Methods: This cross-sectional qualitative study was conducted at the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Benin, employing a purposive sampling technique. A self-structured questionnaire, developed based on study objectives, was used to collect data on socio-demographic information, stimulant use patterns, motivations, and health implications. Quantitative data analysis was performed using SPSS version 22.0, with descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests applied. Ethical considerations were prioritized, with permission obtained from the Department of Clinical Pharmacy and informed consent obtained from participants.

Results: Among 250 respondents, 52.4% were female, with most aged 21-24 years and not engaged in part-time work. While 54.4% used caffeine during exams, primarily sourced from energy drinks (43.4%), 50% reported poor sleep quality after consumption. Awareness of health risks was notable, with 42% identifying insomnia and 13.2% noting dependency/addiction. However, only 21.2% always considered health risks before consumption.

Discussion: The findings of the study underscore the prevalence of caffeine use among UNIBEN pharmacy students and highlight the need for more education on responsible consumption practices. A high prevalence of caffeine use among students during exams has been reported by Maier et al., (2013). There is a significant impact of caffeine on sleep quality, with users experiencing poor sleep after consumption (O’Callaghan et al., (2018). The motivations for caffeine use in the study include staying awake and enhancing concentration, reflecting coping strategies during academic stress. This is consistent with findings by Hildt et al., (2014). Awareness of health risks associated with caffeine, did not impact on caffeine use indicating a gap between knowledge and behavior.

Conclusion: UNIBEN pharmacy students commonly use caffeine during exams for wakefulness and concentration, despite awareness of associated health risks, indicating a need for education on responsible consumption. Poor sleep quality and potential dependency highlight concerns for student well-being.

Keywords: Caffeine, Stimulant Use, Pharmacy Students, Sleep Quality, Health Risks