Differences between methamphetamine users and cocaine users in treatment

To better understand the distinguishing characteristics of methamphetamine users versus cocaine users, we conducted a retrospective chart review of th e 345 patients admitted to an outpatient stimulant treatment program during 1995-1997. Analyses revealed an increase in methamphetamine patients over the 3-year period, and that these patients were more likely than cocaine pa tients to be male, Caucasian. and gay or bisexual. Methamphetamine patients were also more likely to be HIV-positive, engage in behaviors such as usin g and sharing needles that place them at high risk for HIV transmission, ha ve a psychiatric diagnosis, and be on psychiatric medications. The two popu lations did not differ in treatment adherence, as measured by clinic attend ance, drug-free urines, and successful completion of treatment. These findi ngs suggest that highly specialized substance abuse treatments for methamph etamine patients may not be needed. Resources may be directed toward addres sing their medical and psychiatric diagnostic issues by providing ancillary services to stimulant treatment programs. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Irelan d Ltd. All rights reserved.