Illicit tranquilliser use and dependence among female opiate users
Gail Gilchrist1, Jacqueline Atkinson, Laurence Gruer
1Public Health and Health Policy, The University of Glasgow, Scotland. g.gilchrist@unimelb.edu.au
Drug and Alcohol Review
|August 31, 2006
Summary
Female opiate users dependent on illicit tranquillisers often exhibit polydrug use, self-harm history, injecting drug use, and psychiatric symptoms. Early assessment and support are crucial for this vulnerable population.
Area of Science:
- Addiction medicine
- Psychiatry
- Public Health
Background:
- Illicit tranquilliser use is a significant concern among female opiate users.
- Understanding predictors of dependence is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify predictors of 12-month dependence on illicit tranquillisers in female opiate users.
- To inform clinical practice and support services for this population.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study in Glasgow, UK, involving 266 female opiate users.
- Diagnostic Interview Schedule for drug dependence and Revised Clinical Interview Schedule (CIS-R) for neurotic symptoms.
- Multiple logistic regression analysis to determine significant predictors.
Main Results:
- 50% of participants met criteria for 12-month dependence on illicit tranquillisers.
- Key predictors included polydrug use, history of deliberate self-harm, injecting drug use, and current neurotic symptoms (CIS-R ≥ 18).
- Associated factors also included childhood/adulthood abuse and adverse life experiences.
Conclusions:
- Female opiate users using illicit tranquillisers frequently have co-occurring psychiatric symptoms requiring treatment.
- Integrated mental health assessment and psychosocial support are essential for this group.
- Interventions should address polydrug use, self-harm, injecting behaviours, and mental health needs.
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