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Treating substance abuse in schizophrenia. An initial report.
M E Bennett1, A S Bellack, J S Gearon
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine and VA Capital Network Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, USA. mbenn002@umaryland.edu
Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment
|April 18, 2001
Summary
This study updates the Behavioral Treatment for Substance Abuse in Schizophrenia (BTSAS) program for patients with schizophrenia and co-occurring substance use disorders. Clinical experience and outcome data are presented to guide treatment improvements.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Addiction Medicine
Background:
- Schizophrenia is frequently comorbid with substance use disorders (SUDs).
- Neurocognitive and social deficits in schizophrenia impede SUD treatment efficacy.
- Existing SUD treatments often require adaptation for this population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an update on the Behavioral Treatment for Substance Abuse in Schizophrenia (BTSAS) program.
- To discuss clinical experience and program evolution over five years.
- To present preliminary outcome data for patients with schizophrenia and SUDs.
Main Methods:
- The BTSAS program was adapted and implemented.
- Attendance, participation, and substance use data were collected.
- Outcome data were analyzed for patients completing the program, comparing good and poor progress groups.
Main Results:
- Data presented for 42 patients who consented, 14 who completed, and 14 who dropped out.
- Outcome data analyzed for 14 patients.
- Comparison between good progress (n=5) and poor progress (n=9) patients based on urine test results.
Conclusions:
- The BTSAS program has undergone five years of development and adaptation.
- Clinical experience provides insights into treatment delivery for schizophrenia and SUDs.
- Further implications for optimizing treatment strategies are discussed.
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