COCAINE AND CRACK USE AND HIV RISK BEHAVIORS AMONG HIGH-RISK METHADONE-MAINTENANCE CLIENTS

A discriminant function analysis was performed with data from 409 high -risk heroin addicts at intake into a methadone maintenance treatment program to determine the characteristics of cocaine users. Cocaine use rs presented a higher-risk profile for human immunodeficiency virus (H IV), engaged in a wider variety of criminal activities, were more like ly to be African-American, reported more alcohol use, and showed more signs of psychological disturbance. A second discriminant function ana lysis determined that crack smokers differed from non-crack cocaine us ers in ethnicity, alcohol use, criminal activity, needle use, and mari tal status. Heroin addicts who use cocaine, in particular crick, repre sent a sub-group at higher risk and in need of targeted treatment plan ning and monitoring.