jsmc-10032

BENZHEXOL (ARTANE) ABUSE IN AN IRAQI FEDERAL PRISON IN KURDISTAN REGION

Nazar M Mohammad Amin * and Danial Saadi Hamid **

* Raparin Pediatric Teaching Hospital, Erbi, Kurdistan Region, Iraq.

** Hawler Medical University and Consultant Neonatologist, Raparin Pediatric Teaching Hospital.

Submitted: 21/12/2012; Accepted: 7/3/2013; Published 1/6/2013

DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.17656/jsmc.10032

ABSTRACT

Background

Artane is an anticholinergic drug which is prescribed by doctors to patients throughout the world. It is also abused by psychotic patients and nonpsychotic young people. This problem was highlighted in the Middle East recently. Prisons in Iraq were among the places where the abuse was obvious.

Objectives

This study was carried out to determine the prevalence of Artane abuse among the prison inmates, finding the demographic data about Artane abuser inmates and to find sources of Artane supplies to prison inmates

Methods

Among inmates of one of the prisons in Kurdistan Region, 508 were interviewed for addiction on various substances (in the period from 15th of January 2007 to 1st of October 2007).

Results

The research found 146 (28.7%) of the 508 Interviewed to be dependent on substances. Artane was found to be the main drug that was abused by inmates. They were mostly young, single and were addicted on other substances with Artane.

Conclusion

Artane abuse is a problem in Iraq and Kurdistan Region that needs to be addressed by the medical, legal and social authorities in the region. Prisons are among the places that need to be looked at for this abuse.

KEYWORDS

Artane, Trihexyphenydil, Abuse, Prisoners, Benzhexol.

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