In a recent study, it was found that only about 25 percent of individuals with alcohol problems utilized some form of drug treatment for their alcohol-related issues. The research, conducted by LL Milja Hartikainen, examined the real-life effectiveness of various drug treatments on long-term outcomes such as hospitalization or death for individuals with alcohol, opioid, and amphetamine problems.
Individuals with alcohol problems who used naltrexone alone or in combination with disulfiram or acamprosate had a lower risk of hospitalization for alcohol or other reasons. Similarly, the use of disulfiram and combination treatments for alcohol dependence was also associated with a decreased risk of hospitalization related to somatic illnesses caused by alcohol use when compared to those not taking medication.
For individuals struggling with opioid addiction, the use of buprenorphine and methadone was linked to a reduced risk of hospitalization for opioid addiction or death from external causes. The study suggested that a longer duration of drug treatment could lead to improved outcomes.
In terms of amphetamine problems, the use of the ADHD medication lisdexamfetamine was associated with a lower risk of death or hospitalization due to substance abuse or other reasons. Similarly, the use of another ADHD drug, methylphenidate, was linked to lower mortality rates among individuals with amphetamine problems.
Hartikainen highlighted the need for more studies to compare the effectiveness of various drug treatments for substance abuse problems. While there are approved medications for alcohol and opioid addiction, there is currently no officially approved drug treatment for amphetamine addiction. Further research with larger groups and longer follow-up periods is necessary to better understand the impact
