THE GROWING CHALLENGE OF SYNTHETIC CATHINONES AND PRESCRIPTION DRUG MISUSE IN UZBEKISTAN
Keywords:
synthetic cathinones, α-PVP, mephedrone, pregabalin, substance use trends, Uzbekistan, public health, prescription drug misuse, epidemiological analysis, addictionAbstract
The increasing prevalence of synthetic narcotic substances and psychoactive pharmaceutical drug use has become a significant public health concern. This study analyzes trends in substance use in Uzbekistan from 2022 to 2024, focusing on demographic patterns, shifts in drug preferences, and the rising misuse of prescription medications. Methods. A retrospective observational cohort study was conducted using official national registries and medical statistical reports. The study included all registered users of synthetic cathinones, anticonvulsants, and other psychoactive substances during the three-year period. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods were applied, including trend analysis, chi-square tests, correlation analysis, and logistic regression modeling, to assess patterns of substance use by age, gender, and drug type. Results. The total number of registered users nearly doubled between 2022 (409 cases) and 2024 (933 cases), highlighting a sharp rise in synthetic drug use. Males accounted for approximately 89–90% of all cases, while the number of female users increased from 41 in 2022 to 102 in 2024. The 18–34 age group represented the highest-risk demographic, with nearly 70% of all cases. Among synthetic cathinones, α-PVP replaced mephedrone as the most commonly used stimulant, with cases rising from 36 in 2022 to 319 in 2024. Pregabalin misuse also increased, becoming the most frequently abused anticonvulsant (274 cases in 2024). While tropicamide use remained relatively stable (25–30 cases annually), its share in the overall structure declined. Conclusions. The findings indicate a rapid transformation in substance use patterns in Uzbekistan, with synthetic cathinones and prescription drugs gaining popularity. The dominance of α-PVP and the increased misuse of pregabalin underscore the need for stricter pharmaceutical regulation, targeted prevention strategies, and expanded access to treatment programs. Addressing these trends requires a comprehensive public health response.
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