NCJ Number
177730
Editor(s)
R. Robertson
Date Published
1998
Length
428 pages
Annotation
Sixteen papers by persons with diverse professional backgrounds from various settings and countries discuss the rationale underlying treatment for drug dependence as well as treatment delivery methods.
Abstract
The importance of understanding the causes of drug dependency and likely course of events in the lives of drug users are examined in the context of treatment for drug-related health problems such as hepatitis, AIDS, and other medical complications. The authors draw from their experiences in North America, Europe, and Australia to address public health, political, and international drug policy issues along with the essentials of the daily management of drug abusers in treatment. The expectations and limitations of drug treatments currently available are explored in detail. Topics covered include patient assessment, the prescribing of drugs for drug users, detoxification and achieving abstinence, psychosocial and support treatments, pregnant drug users, care in the community, and marginalized groups. This book is intended as a primer for both clinicians working in the field as well as those responsible for the planning and purchase of services for drug abusers. Chapter references and a subject index