A review of drug abuse in recently reported cases of driving under the influence of drugs (DUID) in Asia, USA, and Europe

Abstract

Driving Under the Influence of Drugs (DUID) is considered a serious issue related to the abuse of illegal drugs. DUID cases, including deaths, are being continuously reported in Asia, USA, and Europe. This literature review focuses on illegal drug abuse in recent DUID cases reported in Asia, USA, and Europe. To determine illegal drug abuse in DUID suspects, previous studies collected and analyzed biological samples, such as blood, urine, oral fluids, and hair. In addition, there were forensic autopsies and surveys for investigation of illegal drugs in DUID cases and drivers. In previous studies, ketamine, morphine, methamphetamine (MA), and khat were mainly reported in Asia, whereas amphetamine, benzodiazepines (BZDs), and cannabinoids were mainly reported in USA, and synthetic cannabinoids (SCs), opiates, and cocaine were mainly reported in Europe. Since DUID suspects related to illegal drugs have been frequently reported in Asia, USA, and Europe, there is a need to plan for national monitoring for drivers or motor vehicles to regulate and prevent drug abuse and relevant DUID cases.

Keywords: Asia; DUID; Driving under the influence of drugs; Drug abuse; Europe; USA.