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Alcohol abuse by patients undergoing methadone treatment programmes
British Journal of Addiction
|March 1, 1991
Summary
Problem drinking is common in patients on methadone treatment, with over 30% showing signs of alcohol issues. Many also use benzodiazepines, highlighting a high prevalence of dual alcohol and opiate use requiring further research and tailored treatment strategies.
Area of Science:
- Addiction Medicine
- Clinical Psychology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Methadone treatment programs are crucial for managing opioid dependence.
- Co-occurring alcohol use disorders (AUDs) can complicate treatment outcomes.
- Understanding the prevalence of problem drinking in this population is essential for effective care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of problem drinking among patients in methadone treatment.
- To identify potential correlations between alcohol abuse, benzodiazepine use, and sex.
- To highlight the need for effective treatment strategies for dual addiction.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 170 patients undergoing methadone treatment were assessed.
- The self-administered alcohol screening test (mSAAST) was utilized for assessment.
- Data analysis focused on mSAAST scores, benzodiazepine use, and demographic factors.
Main Results:
- 31.9% of patients (53 out of 170) scored 7 or higher on the mSAAST, indicating problem drinking.
- A tendency for problem drinkers to be male was observed.
- Alcohol abuse was associated with benzodiazepine use, regardless of sex.
Conclusions:
- The prevalence of dual alcohol and opiate use is notably high in patients attending drug dependency units.
- Effective treatment planning for dual-addicted patients requires comprehensive research.
- Addressing co-occurring AUDs is critical for improving outcomes in methadone treatment programs.