Effectiveness of the First German-Language Group Psychotherapy Manual to Accompany Short-Term Treatment in Methamphetamine Dependence

Publikation: Beitrag in FachzeitschriftForschungsartikelBeigetragenBegutachtung

Beitragende

Abstract

Background: Methamphetamine abuse is expanding in Europe, leading to a shortfall in medical care for related disorders in many regions. Research focusing on the effectiveness and feasibility of methamphetamine-specific treatment programs is scarce, especially in short-term settings. Methods: To this end, we treated 31 patients with methamphetamine dependence using a new group psychotherapy manual added to standard psychiatric care. Trained research assistants recorded demographic, illness and treatment variables using a standardized interview at baseline and a follow-up visit 3 months later. Outcome and process variables for this intervention encompassing 15 modules for qualified detoxification and motivation of patients with methamphetamine dependence are reported. Results: Retention and abstinence rates as well as acceptance and feasibility in daily routine were assessed positively. Patients with an unsuccessful outcome were characterized by longer regular methamphetamine use (t = -2.513, df = 29, p = 0.018) and a shorter abstinence period at baseline (U = 74.500, z = -1.808, p = 0.072). Among the demographic and clinical variables, the only predictor significantly increasing the odds of a successful outcome was a shorter period of regular methamphetamine use (OR = 1.318, CI 95% for OR = 1.021-1.700, b = 0.276, SE = 0.130, p = 0.034). Conclusions: This freely available therapy manual can help counter the shortfall in available psychotherapeutic interventions for patients with methamphetamine dependence in German-speaking countries. The routinely assessed parameters duration of regular methamphetamine use and abstinence before treatment were associated with outcome and may be used to personalize therapeutic strategies.

Details

OriginalspracheEnglisch
Seiten (von - bis)130
FachzeitschriftFrontiers in psychiatry
Jahrgang11
PublikationsstatusVeröffentlicht - 2020
Peer-Review-StatusJa

Externe IDs

PubMedCentral PMC7059436
Scopus 85082702050
ORCID /0000-0003-4163-9014/work/142249184
ORCID /0000-0002-3188-8431/work/142251764
ORCID /0009-0001-6359-5377/work/143075718
ORCID /0000-0002-2666-859X/work/146643969

Schlagworte