Abstract
Estimates point to the existence of 60,000 heroin-addicted patients in Portugal. In this paper we present a study using a methodology, called sequential combined treatment, based on the following steps: (a) detoxification; (b) family assessment; (c) naltrexone, always administered to the patient by his parents; (d) family intervention and restructuring. Evaluation procedure included sociodemographic data, patient functioning, psychopathological aspects, depression, HIV check and urine sample analysis. Sixty-three heroin-abusing patients consecutively entering the program were studied. 70% of the patients adhered to the method and achieved 35.5 weeks of abstinence. After 1 year of treatment, 40% were still abstinent. Patient functioning and psychopathology also showed considerable improvement. Despite these encouraging results, further studies are necessary to evaluate this method within different groups of heroin addicts.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 138-145 |
Number of pages | 8 |
Journal | European Addiction Research |
Volume | 3 |
Issue number | 3 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Jan 1997 |
Keywords
- Family therapy
- Heroin addiction
- Naltrexone