Use of Salvia divinorum in a nationally representative sample.

BACKGROUND: Salvia divinorum has known hallucinogenic effects and is legal in most parts of the United States. Given that this psychoactive substance has a potential of misuse and abuse, further data regarding the clinical and psychosocial factors associated with use are needed. OBJECTIVES: To examine the clinical and psychosocial characteristics associated with use of salvia. METHODS: The study uses data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 2008 (N = 55,623). RESULTS: The results of this study suggest that salvia use is most common among young adults aged 18-25 years as well as individuals who had engaged in risk-taking behaviors (selling illicit drugs, stealing) or illicit drug use (especially other hallucinogens/ecstasy). Self-reported depression and anxiety were also associated with salvia use. CONCLUSIONS/SCIENTIFIC SIGNIFICANCE: The results provide evidence that salvia use is part of a broader constellation of psychosocial and behavioral problems among youth and young adults. The accessibility, legal status, and psychoactive effects of salvia can be a potentially complicating health risk to young people, especially among those with existing substance use problems.

Duke Scholars

Author Li-Tzy Wu Psychiatry, Child & Family Mental Health & Community Psychia ...