Psychosocial interventions to reduce alcohol consumption in concurrent problem alcohol and illicit drug users
Abstract Background Problem alcohol use is common among illicit drug users and is associated with adverse health outcomes. It is also an important factor contributing to a poor prognosis among drug users with hepatitis C virus (HCV) as it impacts on progression to hepatic cirrhosis or opiate overdose in opioid users. Objectives To assess the […]
Restricting or banning alcohol advertising to reduce alcohol consumption in adults and adolescents
Abstract Background Alcohol is estimated to be the fifth leading risk factor for global disability-adjusted life years. Restricting or banning alcohol advertising may reduce exposure to the risk posed by alcohol at the individual and general population level. To date, no systematic review has evaluated the effectiveness, possible harms and cost-effectiveness of this intervention. Objectives […]
Maintenance treatments for opiate dependent adolescent
Abstract Background The scientific literature examining effective treatments for opioid-dependent adults clearly indicates that pharmacotherapy is a necessary and acceptable component. Nevertheless, no reviews have been published that systematically assess the effectiveness of pharmacological maintenance treatment in adolescents. Objectives To assess the effectiveness of any maintenance treatment alone or in combination with psychosocial intervention compared […]
Detoxification treatments for opiate dependent adolescents
Abstract Background The scientific literature examining effective treatments for opioid dependent adults clearly indicates that pharmacotherapy is a necessary and acceptable component of effective treatments for opioid dependence. Nevertheless, no studies have been published that systematically assess the effectiveness of the pharmacological detoxification among adolescents. Objectives To assess the effectiveness of any detoxification treatment alone […]
Anticonvulsants for alcohol dependence
Abstract Background Alcohol dependence is a major public health problem that is characterised by recidivism and a host of medical and psychosocial complications. Besides psychosocial interventions, different pharmacological interventions have been or currently are under investigation through Cochrane systematic reviews. Objectives The primary aim of the review is to assess the benefits/risks of anticonvulsants for […]
Buprenorphine maintenance versus placebo or methadone maintenance for opioid dependence
Abstract Background Buprenorphine maintenance treatment has been evaluated in randomised controlled trials against placebo medication, and separately as an alternative to methadone for management of opioid dependence. Objectives To evaluate buprenorphine maintenance compared to placebo and to methadone maintenance in the management of opioid dependence, including its ability to retain people in treatment, suppress illicit […]
Maintenance agonist treatments for opiate dependent pregnant women
Abstract Abstract Background The prevalence of opiate use among pregnant women can range from 1% to 2% to as high as 21%. Heroin crosses the placenta and pregnant, opiate-dependent women experience a six-fold increase in maternal obstetric complications such as low birth weight, toxaemia, third trimester bleeding, malpresentation, puerperal morbidity, fetal distress and meconium aspiration. […]
Efficacy of psychostimulant drugs for amphetamine abuse or dependence
Abstract Background Amphetamine dependence is a public health problem with medical, psychiatric, cognitive, legal and socioeconomic consequences. To date, no pharmacological treatment has been approved for this disorder, and psychotherapy remains the mainstay of treatment. In recent years, psychostimulants have been investigated as a possible replacement therapy. Objectives To evaluate the efficacy and safety of […]
Thiamine for prevention and treatment of Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome in people who abuse alcohol
Abstract Background Autopsy studies suggest that Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome (WKS) is not a rare disorder, particularly in individuals who abuse alcohol. Thiamine has been established as the treatment of choice for over 50 years, but uncertainty remains about appropriate dosage and duration. Current practice guidelines are based on case reports and clinical experience. This is an […]
Slow-release oral morphine as maintenance therapy for opioid dependence
Abstract Background Opioid substitution treatments are effective in retaining people in treatment and suppressing heroin use. An open question remains whether slow-release oral morphine (SROM) could represent a possible alternative for opioid-dependent people who respond poorly to other available maintenance treatments. Objectives To evaluate the efficacy of SROM as an alternative maintenance pharmacotherapy for the […]