Consumption Patterns of Psychotropic Drugs Among Veterinary Medicine Students at the Federal University of Santa Maria

The rise in psychotropic drug use among students, particularly in Veterinary Medicine, correlates with high rates of mental disorders like depression and anxiety, often exacerbated by academic stress. Factors such as high academic demands, emotional exhaustion, and poor sleep quality contribute to the increased use of medications like antidepressants and anxiolytics. However, in Brazil, there is limited research on the profile and factors associated with this drug use among veterinary students. This study aims to assess the prevalence, patterns, and associated factors of psychotropic drug use at the Federal University of Santa Maria. A descriptive-correlational cross-sectional study was conducted using a survey covering sociodemographic data and psychotropic drug use. A total of 245 students participated in this study. The collected data included age, sex, semester, physical activity, sleep quality, drug use, family income, place of birth, and residence. In total, 36.7% of students reported using psychotropic medications during their undergraduate studies, with 77.1% being women and 22.9% men. Additionally, 45.6% reported insufficient sleep, defined as 4 to 6 h per day. Inactive students had a 94.5% higher likelihood of using psychotropic medications. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and benzodiazepines were the most reported drug classes. The findings highlight the emotional and academic burden of veterinary education, underscoring the need for institutional actions that prioritize student mental health.