Methamphetamine dependence and human immunodeficiency virus risk behavior.
We examined human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-related risk behaviors among methamphetamine (MA)-dependent users. Secondary data analysis was performed on data from a large clinical trial: The Methamphetamine Treatment Project (N = 784). All MA-dependent participants were enrolled in an outpatient treatment program, receiving either a standardized psychosocial protocol (Matrix model) or treatment-as-usual. HIV-related risk behavior, including injection and unsafe sexual practices, was assessed using the AIDS Risk Assessment at baseline, treatment discharge, and 6, 12, and 36 months following treatment participation. Results indicated that HIV risk behaviors substantially decreased over time. Treatment factors (retention and completion) and frequency of MA use were both positively associated with increased reduction of HIV risk behaviors. The findings suggested that treatment of MA dependence is promising for reducing behaviors that have been shown to transmit HIV.
Rawson
Richard A
RA
University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Integrated Substance Abuse Programs, Los Angeles, CA 90025, USA. rrawson@mednet.ucla.edu
Gonzales
Rachel
R
Pearce
Valerie
V
Ang
Alfonso
A
Marinelli-Casey
Patricia
P
Brummer
Julie
J
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D019969:Amphetamine-Related Disorders / Q000523:psychology* / Q000534:rehabilitation; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology / Q000635:transmission*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008694:Methamphetamine / Q000009:adverse effects*; D008875:Middle Aged; D010045:Outpatients / Q000523:psychology; D012309:Risk-Taking; D012725:Sexual Behavior / Q000523:psychology; D015819:Substance Abuse, Intravenous / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation; D013997:Time Factors
D008694:Methamphetamine