[Psychotropic medication consumption in the Buenos Aires general population].

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to estimate the prevalence of psychotropic drug consumption among the general population of the city of Buenos Aires.

METHODS

A survey was conducted among 1,777 respondents in different neighborhoods of the city.

RESULTS

At the time of the survey 15,5% of the general population was using some kind of psychotropic medication, and life-time prevalence of use was 29,4%. Utilization was higher in woman and the elderly. There were significant consumption differences by level of educational attainment but no by social class. More than 12% of the population was using benzodiazepines and 3% antidepressants. Almost 25% of the consumers was using the medication without medical advice. Twenty five percent of the users recognized themselves as very dependent on these medications.

CONCLUSIONS

Psychotropic drug use is very extended among the general population of the city of Buenos Aires. Measures to restrict the irrational use of these medications and to control them adequately should be implemented.