NCJ Number
197029
Journal
Addiction Volume: 7 Issue: 97 Dated: July 2002 Pages: 851-859
Editor(s)
Griffith Edwards
Date Published
July 2002
Length
9 pages
Annotation
This study was conducted to evaluate whether gradual benzodiazepine taper combined with cognitive-behavioral treatment was more effective than standard treatment for patients with dependence in out-patient clinics.
Abstract
This study, conducted between February 1995 and July 1999, in four public-sector out-patient clinics for alcohol and drug abusers in Helsinki, Finland, was designed as a randomized, controlled clinical trial using standard questionnaires and serum and urine tests. Alcohol use was measured by AUDIT, a self rating form for assessing consumption of alcohol. Patients taking high doses of benzodiazepine or with alcohol use disorders were included to obtain a subject group of 76 individuals representative of usual clinical practice. The experimental group subjects received gradual benzodiazepine taper combined with cognitive-behavioral therapy, and the control group subjects received standard withdrawal treatment not scheduled by the researchers. The attainment of a state of abstinence or a decrease in the dosage during the study period of up to 12 months duration, was the measure used to determine outcome. Results indicated there was no statistically significant difference in the outcomes observed between the two groups. Of the experimental group, 13 percent were able to discontinue drug use, and of the control group, 27 percent were successful. Additionally, 67 percent of the experimental group and 57 percent of the control group were able to decrease the dose. In conclusion, it was noted that the search continues for better methods of helping patients with complicated benzodiazepine dependence. Tables, references