Evaluation and clinical management of cocaine abusers

The development of an individualized treatment program for cocaine abusers requires a comprehensive assessment of the psychobiological, social, and pharmacological elements that determined the drug abuse behavior as well as those elements that resulted from the behavior. A working knowledge of the "disease model" of chemical dependency, as well as other relevant models, is mandatory. Although the existing outcome data are insufficient, there is a large array of possible treatment options and facilities; the clinician should attempt to match the patient with the program based on relevant clinical and anecdotal information. Clinicians should be familiar with the ethos and procedures of the "12-Step programs"; they are often a critical element in treatment.