Effective treatment of drug use and addiction: A Synthesis of Findings from 16 Studies

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This information is not medical advice and is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a physician.Data sources and disclaimers (data limitations, copyright, etc.)The analysis on "Effective treatment of drug use and addiction: A Synthesis of Findings from 16 Studies" on this page is based on PubMed data provided by the U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM). However, NLM does not endorse or verify these analyses.

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Original Abstract of the Article

Major Research Findings

Several studies have shed light on the effective treatment of drug use and addiction. 15 revealed a shift in the portrayal of drug use in rock autobiographies. It suggests that drugs and alcohol are no longer associated with rebellion and authenticity, as they once were. Instead, surviving addiction has become a central theme in rock culture. 12 indicated that older adults tend to have better long-term outcomes in drug and alcohol treatment compared to younger adults. This could be attributed to factors like longer participation in treatment and fewer connections with people who encourage substance use. 5 highlighted that long-term opioid maintenance treatment (OMT) does not necessarily disrupt reward processing in individuals who were previously addicted to heroin. This suggests that long-term drug use might not always lead to reduced sensitivity to rewards. 9 showed that methadone maintenance (MM) can significantly improve cognitive performance in opioid-dependent individuals after two months of treatment. These studies offer promising insights into effective treatment approaches for drug use and addiction, providing hope for recovery.

Treatment Summary

The studies highlight various treatment approaches for drug use and addiction. 12 suggests that longer treatment duration and a decrease in connections with individuals encouraging substance use play significant roles in promoting long-term recovery for older adults. 5 emphasizes the potential benefits of long-term opioid maintenance treatment (OMT) in maintaining reward responsiveness and facilitating recovery. 9 demonstrates that methadone maintenance (MM) can improve cognitive function and contribute to recovery in individuals with opioid dependence.

Benefits and Risks

Benefits Summary

Treatment for drug use and addiction offers numerous benefits for individuals seeking recovery. It can reduce drug use, address addiction-related issues, improve relationships with family and friends, and facilitate a return to social life. Furthermore, treatment may lead to enhanced cognitive function and improved lifestyle habits.

Risks Summary

While treatment offers hope for recovery, there are potential risks associated with certain approaches. Some treatments may have side effects or carry a risk of dependence. Additionally, treatment may not always be successful, and individuals might relapse into drug use. Therefore, careful consideration and vigilance are crucial when pursuing treatment for drug use and addiction.

Comparison Across Studies

Commonalities

These studies agree that drug use and addiction are serious issues that significantly impact individuals' lives. They also suggest that treatment can potentially yield numerous benefits, such as reducing drug use, overcoming addiction-related problems, and improving relationships.

Differences

The studies also present some differences in their perspectives on treatment approaches and their effectiveness. For instance, 12 emphasizes the efficacy of treatment for older adults, while highlights the influence of racial and ethnic diversity on treatment outcomes. 13 utilizes an animal model and does not directly address human treatment outcomes. These studies offer diverse perspectives on drug use and addiction, highlighting the complexity of the issue.

Consistency and Contradictions in Findings

While the studies suggest the potential for effective treatment of drug use and addiction, it's crucial to remember that treatment outcomes can vary greatly among individuals. Not all treatments are effective for everyone. Certain approaches may carry risks such as side effects or dependence. Moreover, comparing findings across studies requires caution due to different methodologies and participant populations.

Applying Findings to Daily Life

When applying these research findings to real-life scenarios, it's vital to consider the individuality of drug use and addiction. What works for one person may not work for another. Consultation with medical professionals and specialists is essential for choosing the right treatment approach. Personal effort and support from loved ones are indispensable components of recovery. Understanding and support from family and friends can significantly impact the path to recovery.

Limitations of Current Research

Despite valuable insights, the research on drug use and addiction treatment still faces limitations. There is a need for further investigation into long-term treatment outcomes and comparisons across different treatment methods. Research on the underlying factors that contribute to drug use and addiction, as well as individual differences, is also essential. More comprehensive research can lead to the development of even more effective and safe treatment options.

Future Research Directions

Future research should focus on evaluating the long-term effectiveness of treatment across larger participant groups. Comparative studies exploring the efficacy and safety of different treatment methods are crucial. Additionally, research delving into the root causes of drug use and addiction, along with individual differences, is warranted. These research endeavors can pave the way for developing more effective and safe treatment approaches.

Conclusion

Drug use and addiction present a serious challenge, but recovery is achievable. Choosing the right treatment approach, seeking support from loved ones, and making a personal commitment to recovery are essential. Treatment offers the potential to enhance an individual's quality of life and create a more fulfilling future.

Treatment List

The following treatment approaches were highlighted in the research:

  • Opioid Maintenance Treatment (OMT)
  • Methadone Maintenance (MM)
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET)
  • Pharmacotherapy
  • Group Therapy
  • Family Therapy
  • Self-Help Groups (e.g. AA, NA)
Literature analysis of 16 papers
Positive Content
15
Neutral Content
0
Negative Content
1
Article Type
6
1
0
1
16
1.

A comparison of hair quality and cosmetic acceptance following the use of two anti-dandruff shampoos.

Author: DraelosZoe Diana, KenneallyDianna Chute, HodgesLauren Thaman, BillhimerWard, CopasMegan, MargrafCarl

Control dandruff
Improve hair condition

This double-blind cross-over study found that a 1% pyrithione zinc conditioning shampoo was preferred by 75% of subjects with mild to moderate dandruff over a 2% ketoconazole shampoo, suggesting that hair condition can play a significant role in patient compliance with dandruff treatment.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

2.

Randomized study comparing the efficacy and tolerance of a lipohydroxy acid shampoo to a ciclopiroxolamine shampoo in the treatment of scalp seborrheic dermatitis.

Author: SeiteSophie, RougierAndré, TalaricoSergio

Scalp SD treatment
Seborrheic dermatitis treatment

A lipohydroxy acid shampoo was more convenient, efficient, safe, and well-tolerated than a ciclopiroxolamine shampoo for treating mild-to-moderate seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp. The lipohydroxy acid shampoo significantly improved tolerance and global efficacy compared to the ciclopiroxolamine shampoo.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

3.

Epidermal changes associated with symptomatic resolution of dandruff: biomarkers of scalp health.

Author: KerrKathy, DarcyTrevor, HenryJames, MizoguchiHaruko, SchwartzJames R, MorrallStephen, FilloonThomas, WimalasenaRohan, FadayelGina, MillsKevin J

Dandruff treatment

A potentiated zinc pyrithione shampoo improved the overall scalp condition in dandruff sufferers by reducing flaking, inflammation, and improving epidermal barrier integrity.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

4.

Disease and decision.

Author: SmithKirsten E

Addiction recovery
Stigmatization

This personal narrative explores the author's experience with heroin addiction and recovery, emphasizing the heterogeneity of individual experiences and the need for compassionate care beyond labels.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

5.

Intact responses to non-drug rewards in long-term opioid maintenance treatment.

Author: EikemoMarie, LobmaierPhilipp P, PedersenMads L, KunøeNikolaj, MatziorinisAnna Maria, LeknesSiri, SarfiMonica

Opioid maintenance treatment
Reward responsiveness
Addiction

Long-term opioid maintenance treatment (OMT) does not necessarily disrupt reward processing in previously heroin-addicted mothers. This study found that OMT did not result in reduced sensitivity to rewards or anhedonia.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

7.

Continuing care and long-term substance use outcomes in managed care: early evidence for a primary care-based model.

Author: ChiFelicia W, ParthasarathySujaya, MertensJennifer R, WeisnerConstance M

Long-term recovery
Substance use disorder treatment

This study analyzed nine years of data from a managed care health plan to examine the effectiveness of a continuing care model for patients with substance use disorders. The model included primary care, specialty substance abuse treatment, and psychiatric services. The results indicate that this combined approach positively impacted outcomes over the long term.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.

Language : English

8.

Hooked on benzodiazepines: GABAA receptor subtypes and addiction.

Author: TanKelly R, RudolphUwe, LüscherChristian

Amnesia induction
Anxiety treatment
Insomnia treatment
Muscle relaxation
Seizure control
Addiction
Dependence

Benzodiazepines, commonly used for anxiety and insomnia, can be addictive. They activate midbrain dopamine neurons, potentially leading to dependence and addiction. Research is ongoing to develop benzodiazepines with reduced addiction liability.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

9.

Methadone maintenance improves cognitive performance after two months of treatment.

Author: GruberStaci A, TzilosGolfo K, SilveriMarisa M, PollackMark, RenshawPerry F, KaufmanMarc J, Yurgelun-ToddDeborah A

Improved Cognition
Reduced Drug Use

This study examined cognitive function in 17 opiate-dependent subjects at baseline and after 2 months of methadone maintenance (MM) treatment. Subjects showed significant improvements in verbal learning and memory, visuospatial memory, and psychomotor speed.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

10.

Racial and ethnic diversity among a heroin and cocaine using population: treatment system utilization.

Author: BernsteinEdward, BernsteinJudith, TassiopoulosKatherine, ValentineAnne, HeerenTimothy, LevensonSuzette, HingsonRalph

Tailored treatment
Drug abuse

This study identifies racial/ethnic variations in drug use patterns, treatment responses, and treatment system contacts among cocaine and heroin users. The results indicate that racial/ethnic differences should be considered when developing substance abuse treatment modalities and policies.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.

Language : English

11.

Delivering care to injection drug users coinfected with HIV and hepatitis C virus.

Author: TaylorLynn E

HCV treatment adherence
Drug dependence

Injection drug use has fueled the epidemic of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) coinfection in the United States. Nevertheless, drug dependence is among the main reasons that coinfected persons are not being treated for HCV infection. This report describes the development and progress of an HIV clinic program (funded by the Ryan White Comprehensive AIDS Resources Emergency Act) to deliver care for HCV infection to HIV-seropositive injection drug users. To optimize safety and adherence, pegylated interferon is directly administered to patients in the context of integrated addiction, psychiatric, and HIV and HCV therapy. Ribavirin is packed weekly in pill boxes for patients to take at home. Thus far, adherence to weekly visits for treatment with interferon has been 99%. No one has had to stop treatment for HCV infection because of ongoing drug use, addiction relapse or exacerbation, or psychiatric complications. Presented here is a work in progress, rather than a finished research project or definitive model of care.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.Research funding provided by the Public Health Service (PHS).

Language : English

12.

Five-year alcohol and drug treatment outcomes of older adults versus middle-aged and younger adults in a managed care program.

Author: SatreDerek D, MertensJennifer R, AreánPatricia A, WeisnerConstance

Improved long-term outcome
Longer treatment retention
Reduced substance use

Older adults had favorable long-term outcome following chemical dependency treatment relative to younger adults. These differences may be accounted for by variables associated with age such as type of substance dependence, treatment retention, social networks and gender.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.Research funding provided by the Public Health Service (PHS).

Language : English

13.

Evidence for addiction-like behavior in the rat.

Author: Deroche-GamonetVéronique, BelinDavid, PiazzaPier Vincenzo

Addiction treatment
Cocaine addiction

This study reports that behaviors that resemble three of the essential diagnostic criteria for addiction appear over time in rats trained to self-administer cocaine. This addiction-like behavior is present only in a small proportion of subjects using cocaine and is highly predictive of relapse after withdrawal.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

14.

The Marijuana Treatment Project: rationale, design and participant characteristics.

Author: StephensRobert S, BaborThomas F, KaddenRonald, MillerMichael,

The Marijuana Treatment Project (MTP) successfully recruited a more ethnically and gender diverse sample than had been studied previously for marijuana dependence treatment.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Multicenter StudyResearch conducted in collaboration with multiple research institutions. It aims to collect a wide range of data and obtain more generalizable results.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.Research funding provided by the Public Health Service (PHS).

Language : English

15.

To hell and back: excessive drug use, addiction, and the process of recovery in mainstream rock autobiographies.

Author: OksanenAtte

Addiction recovery
Rock culture evolution
Substance abuse

Rock autobiographies focus on addiction recovery, with most writers having undergone treatment. They use therapeutic language and reflect a shift in rock culture, where surviving addiction is now a key theme.

Historical ArticleA research paper that analyzes past events and developments using primary sources and examines them from a historical perspective.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

16.

Evidence for addiction-like behavior in the rat.

Author: Deroche-GamonetVéronique, BelinDavid, PiazzaPier Vincenzo

Addiction treatment
Cocaine addiction

This study reports that behaviors that resemble three of the essential diagnostic criteria for addiction appear over time in rats trained to self-administer cocaine. This addiction-like behavior is present only in a small proportion of subjects using cocaine and is highly predictive of relapse after withdrawal.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

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