RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SUBJECTIVE EFFECTS AND DRUG PREFERENCES - ETHANOL AND DIAZEPAM

The relationship between subjective effects and drug preferences in no rmal volunteers was explored in a meta-analysis of several previously published studies. Subjective effects of, and preference for, ethanol and diazepam vs. placebo were measured using a choice procedure. Subje cts were grouped according to their drug choices: 'non-choosers' never chose drug, whereas 'choosers' always chose drug. The two groups were compared on their subjective responses to drug and on demographic var iables. Ethanol decreased Arousal, Elation, Positive Mood and Vigor, a nd increased Anxiety, Depression and Fatigue in the non-choosers, wher eas it increased Arousal and Vigor in the choosers. Ethanol choosers w ere also more likely to be males and/or full-time students than non-ch oosers. Diazepam produced sedative-like effects in both choosers and n on-choosers, but markedly decreased Anxiety and increased Friendliness in choosers only. Diazepam choice was also associated with more frequ ent recreational use of marijuana and stimulants. Thus, both demograph ic variables and subjective drug effects were related to drug preferen ce.