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. 1996;20(2):118-123.

Treating Alcohol Problems in the Context of Other Drug Abuse

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Treating Alcohol Problems in the Context of Other Drug Abuse

William R Miller et al. Alcohol Health Res World. 1996.

Abstract

People seeking treatment for alcohol problems frequently abuse other drugs as well, such as tobacco, cocaine, marijuana, methamphetamine, and opiates. The problem of polydrug use raises important issues for treatment providers. A person who abuses multiple drugs may have a more difficult time stopping drinking and a higher risk for relapse to alcohol use after treatment. Conversely, a person who successfully stops drinking may offset this achievement by substituting another drug for alcohol. Successful treatment must take into account both alcohol- and drug-related issues, with particular emphasis on assessment, motivation, treatment design, and outcome evaluation.

Keywords: AOD associated consequences; AOD dependence; AODD (alcohol and other drug use disorder) relapse; causes of AODU (alcohol and other drug use); illicit drug; motivation; multiple drug use; patient assessment; treatment factors; treatment method; treatment outcome.

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References

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