Randomized controlled trial of brief cognitive-behavioural interventions among regular users of amphetamine.
OBJECTIVE
To identify whether brief cognitive-behavioural interventions are feasible among regular users of amphetamine, to assess the effectiveness of intervention overall and to pilot two- and four-session interventions.


METHODS
Subjects were assigned randomly to individually receive a cognitive-behavioural intervention (n = 32) of either two or four sessions' duration or a self-help booklet (control condition; n = 32).


METHODS
Subjects were volunteers recruited from needle exchange schemes and treatment centres in Newcastle, Australia.


METHODS
Regular (at least monthly) users of amphetamine were recruited.


METHODS
Either four sessions of cognitive-behaviour therapy, consisting of a motivational interview and skills training in avoidance of high-risk situations, coping with craving and relapse prevention, or two sessions consisting of a motivational interview and discussion of skills.


METHODS
The Opiate Treatment Index was the main measure at pre-treatment and 6-month follow-up.


RESULTS
There was a significant reduction in amphetamine use among the sample as a whole, with inconclusive differences between intervention subgroups. There was a moderate overall intervention effect, with the intervention group reporting over twice the reduction in daily amphetamine use as the control group. Significantly more people in the cognitive-behavioural intervention condition abstained from amphetamine at 6-month follow-up compared to the control condition.


CONCLUSIONS
Brief cognitive-behavioural interventions appear feasible among regular users of amphetamine. A larger randomised controlled trial of the effectiveness of such interventions appears warranted.
Baker
A
A
Centre for Mental Health Studies, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia. amanda.baker@newcastle.edu.au
Boggs
T G
TG
Lewin
T J
TJ
D000328:Adult; D019969:Amphetamine-Related Disorders / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009517:New South Wales; D010358:Patient Participation; D011614:Psychotherapy, Brief / Q000379:methods*; D016896:Treatment Outcome