CARTEEH logo with green car and plant

Center for Advancing Research in Transportation Emissions, Energy, and Health (CARTEEH)

A USDOT University Transportation Center

Amount of Medication

The amount of medication is a quantifiable indicator indicating the relevance of engaging in physical activities, such as active modes of transport, in reducing the amount of medication use1 stated in his preclinical evidence revealing that engaging in the active mode of transportation is directly linked to serving as a preventive and treatment intervention that helps reduce the amount of medication intake.

This indicator helps determine the effectiveness of the following objectives

  • Less Contamination
  • Less Emissions
  • Less Traffic Noise
  • Connectivity and Inclusion
  • Healthy Destinations
  • Less Traffic Violence
  • Active Transportation
  • Green Space

Data Collection

Data sources include surveys, interviews, focus groups, and observations. Data can also be collated from the database of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS).2

Examples

Medication Treatment for Opioid-dependent Expecting Mothers (MOMs): A Pragmatic Randomized Trial Comparing Two Buprenorphine Formulations (NIH HEAL Initiative)

According to research studies conducted by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), physical activities help reduce the amount of medication use among people who are addicted to drugs. The research shows that people who are physically active have a higher chance of recovering from their addiction and staying sober in the long term. The NIDA recommends that people who are struggling with drug addiction should participate in physical activity as part of their treatment plan. Physical activity can help reduce cravings for drugs, improve mood, and increase overall well-being. It is important to find an activity that you enjoy and stick with it, as regular physical activity is key to maintaining sobriety in the long term.

https://nida.nih.gov/about-nida/organization/cctn/ctn/research-studies

1. Bardo, M.T., Compton, W.M. “Does physical activity protect against drug abuse vulnerability?.” Drug and alcohol dependence vol. 153 (2015): 3-13. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2015.05.037
2. CDC. Data and statistics [Internet]. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2022 [cited 2022 Aug 16]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/datastatistics/index.html