[Two methods of support for methamphetamine concurrent disorder--comparison of "schizophrenia support" model and...

The coexistence of methamphetamine use disorder (MUD) and psychotic disorder (PSD) is common in clinical settings. These cases are defined as methamphetamine concurrent disorder (MCD). It is often hard to decide which type of support is suitable for a MCD case; the one used for schizophrenics ("schizophrenia-support" model) or for drug addicts ("dependence-support" model). In the present study, we compare the courses of two MCD cases; one was supported using the "schizophrenia-support" model, and the other by the "dependence-support" model. These cases suggest that it is preferable to switch the models from one to the other, based on the severity of dependence. After stabilizing the patient's life through the use of at least three to six months of pharmacotherapy and psychiatric rehabilitation, we can recommend that the patient attend self-help meetings convenient for them. If the MCD patient has no risk of methamphetamine use, the hospital should play a major role to urge the health and the welfare facilities to support the patient. If the patient has some risk of relapse or criminal behavior, the legal system as well as medical and welfare facilities should play the major roles to present suitable services and to prepare an appropriate care-system.