University student perceptions about the motives for and consequences of nonmedical use of prescription drugs (NMUPD).

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of the current study was to increase qualitative understanding of student motives for and consequences associated with nonmedical use of prescription drugs.

PARTICIPANTS: Sixty-one students participated in eight focus groups between April and November 2013.

METHODS: Students described prescription drugs commonly used for nonmedical reasons, as well as the motives for and consequences associated with their use. Data were analyzed using thematic content analysis.

RESULTS: Students reported stimulants as the most commonly used prescription drug for nonmedical reasons, least expensive, and easiest to obtain on campus, followed by benzodiazepines. Opioids were less commonly used, more expensive, and difficult to acquire. Motives and consequences varied by prescription drug class.

CONCLUSIONS: Our qualitative findings extend previous research by suggesting differences in students' perceived motives for using and consequences associated with the different classes of prescription drugs. These findings provide implications for the development of preventive interventions.