Substance Misuse

Question 1

Goals of treatment for drug misuse?

‘Brief interventions’

Community help?

Answer 1

Mainly to improve physical and mental health and to improve relationships/emplyability. Abstinence is the ultimate goal but the aim may just be reduction, maintenance or just harm reduction.

BI- aim is to help patients understand their subs

Question 2

Goals of treatment for drug misuse?

‘Brief interventions’

Psychosocial Interventions?

Community help?

Answer 2

Mainly to improve physical and mental health and to improve relationships/emplyability. Abstinence is the ultimate goal but the aim may just be reduction, maintenance or just harm reduction.

BI- aim is to help patients understand their substance use is putting them at risk. Two sessions 10-45mins, trying to increase motivation to change and discuss treatment

PI- operant conditioning, behavioural couples therapy, CBT if comorbid depression.

CH - self-help, online websites, medications, rehabilitation centres, sober living homes

Question 3

Goal of harm reduction?

Approaches?

Opiate substitution?

Pharmacological interventions?

Monitoring and supervision?

Answer 3

Minimise risk, gateway to social care for vulnerable individuals

Needle exchange schemes where sterile needles are provided. Drug consumption rooms - drugs taken under supervision
Drug testing in clubs
Education

OS is only indicated if there is opiate dependence.

Methadone is first line and buprenorphine is second line for substitution - both partial agonists.

Monitored by pharmacy or drug workers and support can be offered from a key worker up to 6 months after detox for help with jobs/housing.