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Substance use disorders: sex differences and psychiatric comorbidities
Monica L Zilberman1, Hermano Tavares, Sheila B Blume
1Addiction Centre, Foothills Medical Centre, University of Calgary, 1403-29th Street NW, Calgary, AB T2N 2T9. monica.zilberman@calgaryhealthregion.ca
Summary
Women with substance use disorders have higher rates of psychiatric comorbidity, like mood and anxiety disorders, than men. These differences impact treatment outcomes, presenting unique challenges and opportunities for women.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Addiction Medicine
Background:
- Substance use disorders (SUDs) frequently co-occur with psychiatric conditions.
- Understanding sex differences in this comorbidity is crucial for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review sex differences in psychiatric comorbidity among individuals with SUDs.
- To examine the clinical significance of these differences for treatment outcomes, especially in women.
Main Methods:
- Computerized search of major health care databases.
- Reference list review of relevant prior articles.
Main Results:
- Women with SUDs exhibit higher rates of psychiatric comorbidity, particularly mood and anxiety disorders, compared to men.
- Comorbid diagnoses, especially depression, are often primary in women, whereas they are typically secondary to SUD in men.
- Psychiatric comorbidity is linked to distinct, sex-specific outcomes in substance use treatment.
Conclusions:
- Sex differences in the presentation of psychiatric comorbidity in substance-dependent individuals create specific challenges.
- These differences also offer unique opportunities for tailored treatment interventions.