Cocaine dependence and concurrent marijuana use: a comparison of clinical characteristics.

Abstract

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES:

Marijuana is the most commonly used illicit substance, yet among the least studied in medication development research. Cocaine-dependent individuals frequently also use marijuana; however, little is known about the effect of this combined use on treatment presentation.

METHODS:

Marijuana use was assessed in 1183 individuals seeking outpatient treatment for cocaine dependence. Based on past 30 days of use, the sample was divided into three groups: (1) patients reporting no recent marijuana use (n = 634); (2) occasional use (n = 403); (3) and frequent concurrent marijuana use (n = 146). Differences on baseline measures of substance use, addiction severity (ASI), psychopathology, and sociodemographic characteristics were examined as a function of level of marijuana use.

RESULTS:

Frequent marijuana users were more likely to be female, Caucasian, and younger than other groups. Cocaine-dependent patients with frequent marijuana use also used more cocaine and alcohol, and reported more medical, legal, and psychiatric problems, including antisocial personality disorder.

CONCLUSION AND SCIENTIFIC SIGNIFICANCE:

Cocaine-dependent patients with frequent marijuana use present for treatment with more severe impairment. Accounting for this heterogeneity among participants may improve treatment outcome.

• Authors: Jan A Lindsay, Angela L Stotts, Charles E Green, David V Herin, Joy M Schmitz
• Journal: The American journal of drug and alcohol abuse (Am J Drug Alcohol Abuse) Vol. 35 Issue 3 Pg. 193-8 ( 2009) ISSN: 1097-9891 [Electronic] England
• PMID: 19462304 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural)

Topics

• Adult
• Age Factors
• Antisocial Personality Disorder (complications)
• Cocaine-Related Disorders (complications, physiopathology, rehabilitation)
• Diagnosis, Dual (Psychiatry)
• Female
• Humans
• Male
• Marijuana Abuse (complications, epidemiology)
• Middle Aged
• Racial Groups (statistics & numerical data)
• Severity of Illness Index
• Sex Factors
• Substance Abuse Treatment Centers