Correlates of COVID-19 pandemic-related increases in sleep aid and anti-anxiety medication use. (2nd January 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Grigsby, Timothy J.; Howard, Jeffrey T.; Deason, Rebecca G.; Haskard-Zolnierek, Kelly B.; Howard, Krista
• Is Part Of: Journal of substance use. Volume 27:Number 1(2022)
• Page Start: 56
• Page End: 61
• Publication Date: 2022-01-02
• Subjects: COVID-19 -- prescription Drug Use -- sleep Aid -- anxiety -- stress; Substance abuse -- Periodicals; Medication abuse -- Periodicals; 362.2905
• DOI: 10.1080/14659891.2021.1892221
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1465-9891

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Objective: The COVID-19 pandemic has created a stressful environment of fear, isolation, and economic instability. This study quantifies rates of self-reported increases in use of anxiety-related medications and sleep aids, and identifies demographic, health and psychosocial correlates during the initial stay-at-home period of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: An online survey was administered to U.S. adults (n = 2, 739), aged 18 and older, from April 14 to April 22, 2020 to assess self-reported change in anti-anxiety and sleep aid use during the stay-at-home protocols. Data were weighted to the US population for analysis. Results: Weighted results indicate anti-anxiety and sleep aid medications increased for 35.7% and 41.2% of the population, respectively. Major depressive disorder (MDD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), and somatization disorder (SD) symptoms were associated with increased use of anti-anxiety medications. GAD and SD were associated with increased use of sleep aids. Perceived stress, quality of life, fatigue and concentration were associated with increased use of anti-anxiety medication and sleep aids. Conclusions: These findings provide critical insights necessary in preparing for future outbreaks of similar magnitude. Developing policies to support economic and healthcare infrastructure is a necessary first step to ameliorating secondary health consequences from an infectious disease outbreak.