Self detoxication by amphetamine dependent patients: a pilot study.
Fifty current or past amphetamine dependent clients attending a Community Drug and Alcohol Team service took part in structured interviews about their previous attempts to stop using amphetamine. Thirty three had made a total of 47 attempts at self detoxication; 15 had undergone enforced withdrawal and ten had previously sought medical treatment. A total of 86% of subjects described significant withdrawal symptoms on stopping use of amphetamines. Increased use of other drugs was commonly reported as a means of coping with withdrawal, psycho-social techniques being used less systematically. The implications for the provision of attractive, effective treatments are discussed.
Cantwell
B
B
Mid Glamorgan Community Drug and Alcohol Team, Llwyn Yr Eos Clinic, Mid Glamorgan UK.
McBride
A J
AJ
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D019969:Amphetamine-Related Disorders / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D001294:Attitude to Health; D016739:Behavior, Addictive / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010865:Pilot Projects; D012008:Recurrence; D012648:Self Care / Q000379:methods / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D013375:Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / Q000503:physiopathology; D016896:Treatment Outcome