DRUG MISUSE AMONG YOUTH IN THE ERA OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

ADILI, Arta and NUHI, Nexhibe (2026) DRUG MISUSE AMONG YOUTH IN THE ERA OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE. In: INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE “FROM RESEARCH TO APPLICATION”, 20 May, 2026.

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Abstract

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools and online health information has increasingly influenced how young people access and interpret medical knowledge, contributing to a tendency toward self-medication. This study aimed to evaluate drug use patterns among young people and the influence of AI and digital resources on medication-related decisions. A descriptive study was conducted using an anonymous questionnaire with 54 participants, assessing over-the-counter drug use, types of medications, responses to symptoms, and use and trust of AI and online information. Most participants were female and aged 19–26 years. The majority reported rare use of over-the-counter drugs, with analgesics being the most commonly used medications. In response to new symptoms, most participants consulted a physician, while fewer relied on AI tools, online sources, pharmacists, or self-medication. Trust in AI and internet-based health information was generally moderate to low. Physicians remained the primary influence in medication decisions. Although self-medication was present, professional medical advice was still the dominant approach. AI and online resources were mainly used as supportive tools rather than primary decision-making sources. The findings suggest that while digital technologies are becoming part of health information seeking, their impact on drug use behavior remains limited. These results highlight the need for improved health education and responsible use of medications in the digital age.

Item Type: Conference or Workshop Item (Paper)
Subjects: Q Science > Q Science (General)
Divisions: Faculty of Law, Arts and Social Sciences > School of Social Sciences
Depositing User: Unnamed user with email zshi@unite.edu.mk
Date Deposited: 10 Sep 2026 12:24
Last Modified: 10 Sep 2026 12:24
URI: http://eprints.unite.edu.mk/id/eprint/2390

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