NCJ Number
102595
Date Published
1984
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This study examines the use of nonnarcotic drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, and barbiturates by a group of 354 male narcotic addicts while they were addicted, as well as while they were not addicted and in the community.
Abstract
Most narcotics addicts use other drugs to intensify or prolong the narcotic's effect or as a substitute. This research was based on detailed interviews conducted with 195 black and 159 white addicts representing a stratified random sample of known narcotic (principally heroin) users from the Baltimore area. The group's mean age was 34.1 years. Marijuana and cocaine were by far the most widely used nonnarcotic drugs. Barbiturates were also popular, particularly among white addicts. Overall, blacks and whites displayed different preferences with regard to nonnarcotic drugs. The results show that most narcotic addicts use various nonnarcotic drugs during their periods of addiction, in quantities that are not negligible. Furthermore, most narcotics addicts are seldom completely drug free. This presents a dilemma for therapists: is it practical to demand total abstinence from all illicit drugs as a goal in treating narcotic addicts? Tables and 8 references.