Substance abuse issues in cancer patients. Part 2: Evaluation and treatment

The relationship between the therapeutic use of potentially abusable drugs for symptom control and the multifaceted nature of abuse and addiction is extremely complex. Research is only beginning to elucidate the nature of this relationship and its clinical implications. At present, practical management is based primarily on clinical experience and anecdotal observations. In part I of this two-part series (published last month), the authors explored the epidemiology of substance abuse in the cancer population, provided definitions of addiction and abuse appropriate for the oncology setting, and offered guidelines for the assessment of aberrant drug-taking behavior. In this second part, the authors provide recommendations for the evaluation and treatment of patients with cancer who have a history of substance abuse. Suggested therapeutic goals are outlined, and plans for inpatient and outpatient management and detailed.