Treatment Seeking Nitrous Oxide Users in Addiction Care: A Comparison with Cocaine Users on Clinical and Treatment Characteristics.

INTRODUCTION: Over the past decade, frequent use of large quantities of nitrous oxide (N2O) has become more common in the Netherlands. Although N2O poses several negative health consequences for a subgroup of problematic N2O users, there is a lack of knowledge on what characterizes these intensive users. This study therefore aims to provide the demographic and substance use characteristics and experiences during treatment of treatment seeking problematic N2O users and to compare this with a matched group of treatment-seeking problematic cocaine users. METHODS: A retrospective chart review was performed of patients who were referred for treatment of problematic N2O use at a large Dutch addiction care facility from January 2020 to September 2022, extracting demographics, pattern of use and follow-up data. Additionally, a subgroup of N2O users was propensity-score matched (1:1) with a subgroup of treatment seeking problematic cocaine users, both groups excluding users with substance use disorders or frequent use of substances other than N2O and cocaine, respectively. RESULTS: 128 patients with a N2O use disorder were included in the total sample and a subgroup of 77 N2O-only users was propensity-score matched on age and sex to 77 cocaine-only users. N2O users were typically young (mean age 26.2 years), male (66.4%), unmarried (82.9%), with a low education level (59.0%) and born in the Netherlands (88.2%), with parents born in Morocco (45.3%). N2O was used intermittently (median 10 days/month, IQR 4.0-17.5 days) and often in very large quantities (median 5 kg [ca. 750 balloons] per average using day, IQR 2-10 kg). Compared to the patients with a cocaine use disorder, matched N2O users were lower educated, more often from Moroccan descent, and less likely to be alcohol or polysubstance users. Despite receiving similar treatments, N2O users were twice as likely to discontinue treatment before completion compared to cocaine users (63 vs. 35%, p = 0.004). CONCLUSION: Treatment-seeking problematic N2O users are demographically different from treatment-seeking problematic cocaine users and are much more likely to dropout from psychological treatment. Further research is needed into the needs and other factors of problematic N2O users that relate to poor treatment adherence in problematic N2O users.

Neonatal outcomes associated with tobacco, alcohol, and crack use during pregnancy in three Neonatal Intensive Care Units.

Despite the prevalence of substance use during pregnancy, studies focusing exclusively on Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU) admissions remain limited. This study investigates the impact of maternal use of tobacco, alcohol, and/or crack, on neonatal outcomes among infants admitted to three Brazilian NICUs. Additionally, the investigation explores the impact of substance use on DNA damage in newborns. Over a one-year period, data from 254 newborns were collected through medical records, accompanied by blood samples. Findings revealed that 16.1% of newborns had mothers reporting substance use during pregnancy. Significant associations were found between maternal substance use and adverse neonatal outcomes, including low birth weight, preterm birth, and sexually transmitted infections. Maternal variables linked to substance use encompassed non-white skin color, low education, non-masonry housing, lower income, diseases in other children, and fewer prenatal consultations. Notably, neonatal DNA damage showed no significant association with substance use. Our results underscore the substantial impact of maternal substance use on NICU-admitted infants, emphasizing the necessity for targeted interventions that address both neonatal health and maternal well-being, thereby underscoring the crucial role of comprehensive care in NICU settings.

Prenatal incidence of cleft lip/palate and cocaine abuse in parents: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: The study aimed to investigate the association between maternal cocaine abuse during pregnancy and the prevalence of cleft lip/palate (CL/P) in offspring, synthesizing existing evidence through a systematic review and meta-analysis. CL/P is a congenital craniofacial anomaly with complex etiology, and prior research has suggested potential links between maternal cocaine use and CL/P. However, these associations remain inconclusive. METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was conducted to identify relevant studies published up to the study's cutoff date in September 2021. Several databases were systematically searched using predefined search terms. Inclusion criteria were set to encompass studies reporting on the prevalence of CL/P in infants born to mothers with a history of cocaine use during pregnancy, with a comparison group of non-cocaine-using mothers. Data were extracted, and a meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model to calculate pooled odds ratios (OR) and relative risks (RR) with their respective 95% confidence intervals (CI). RESULTS: The review included data from 4 studies that met the inclusion criteria. The combined OR from two studies was 0.05 (95% CI: 0.00, 4.41), which does not suggest a statistically significant association between prenatal cocaine exposure and the incidence of CL/P due to the confidence interval crossing the null value. Additionally, the combined RR was 0.17 (95% CI: 0.04, 0.66), indicating a statistically significant decrease in the risk of CL/P associated with prenatal cocaine exposure. These results, with an OR that is not statistically significant and an RR suggesting decreased risk, should be interpreted with caution due to considerable heterogeneity and variability among the included studies' findings. Further research is needed to clarify these associations. CONCLUSION: The findings from this systematic review and meta-analysis suggest that maternal cocaine use during pregnancy is not a statistically significant independent risk factor for the development of CL/P in offspring. These results underscore the multifactorial nature of CL/P etiology and emphasize the importance of considering other genetic, environmental, and nutritional factors in understanding the condition's origins. While the study provides important insights, limitations such as data heterogeneity and potential confounders should be acknowledged. Future research should adopt rigorous study designs and explore a broader range of potential risk factors to comprehensively elucidate CL/P development.

Examining cocaine use reductions and long-term outcomes in two clinical trials of continuing care for cocaine dependence.

BACKGROUND: There is a need to identify clinically meaningful non-abstinent endpoints for cocaine use disorder (CUD) clinical trials. In this study, we sought to replicate and extend prior work validating reductions in cocaine use frequency levels as an endpoint by examining associations between reductions in cocaine use frequency and long-term functioning outcomes. METHODS: We conducted a secondary analysis of two randomized clinical trials (N = 445; 77.5 % male; mean age = 42.18 years; 86.5 % Black, 10.8 % non-Hispanic white) that evaluated telephone-based continuing care for a 12- and 24-month period. Cocaine use frequency levels, measured with the Timeline Followback, were (1) abstinence (no past-month cocaine use), (2) low-frequency use (1-4 days of use/month), and (3) high-frequency use (5+ days of use/month). RESULTS: Among those who completed the 12-month follow-up (n = 392), most reduced from high-frequency use at baseline to abstinence at the 12-month follow-up (n = 243; 62.0 %). An additional 21.2 % (n = 83) reported either high-to-low-frequency use (n = 35; 8.9 %) or low use-to-abstinence (n = 48; 12.2 %); 16.8 % of participants (n = 66) did not change or increased their cocaine frequency level. Compared to those who had no change/increases in frequency levels, at least a one-level reduction from baseline to 12-month follow-up (i.e., high-to-low-frequency use, high-to-abstinence, low-to-abstinence) was concurrently associated with lower levels of negative consequences at the 12-month follow-up and prospectively with lower levels of cocaine use and consequences at 24-month follow-up, with effect sizes in the medium-to-large range. Those who reduced to abstinence generally had fewer drug use consequences at the 12-month follow-up than those who reduced to a low-frequency level; however, these groups did not significantly differ on any outcomes at the 24-month follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Categorical reductions in cocaine use frequency levels, including those short of abstinence, are associated with less cocaine use and lower problem severity up to two years following treatment entry. Low-frequency cocaine use following the initial treatment phase does not appear to forebode worsening functioning, such as escalations in cocaine use.

Cocaine/crack and cannabis use among transgender women in Goiás, Central Brazil.

INTRODUCTION: Illicit drug use is a significant public health problem. Studies have shown a high prevalence of cocaine and cannabis use in transgender women (TGW). OBJECTIVE: To describe the consumption patterns of cannabis and cocaine/crack use and variables associated with their use in TGW in Central Brazil. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted on TGW in Goiás, Brazil. Participants were recruited using a respondent-driven sampling method and were interviewed face-to-face about cannabis and crack-cocaine and the variables associated with them. The Alcohol Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test was used to assess substance use. Unweighted logistic regression was used to identify variables associated with cannabis and crack cocaine use. P-values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. RESULTS: A total of 440 transgender women participated in the study. Their median age was 25 years (interquartile range: 20.5-29.5 years). Most participants were single (85.5%) and had engaged in sex work in their lifetime (58.6%). Cannabis was reported by 68.9% and 53.4% of participants in their lifetime and in the past three months, respectively, and cocaine/crack use was reported by 59.8% and 44.1% of participants in their lifetime and the past three months, respectively. Of the participants, 10.2% reported high-risk cannabis use, and 9.1% reported high-risk cocaine/crack use. Furthermore, 35% of participants reported using both drugs. Previous physical violence (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR): 2.37), inconsistent condom uses during anal sex (AOR: 2.17), and moderate-/high-risk cocaine/crack use (AOR: 3.14) were associated with high-risk cannabis use. Previous sexual violence (AOR: 2.84), previous STI (AOR: 2.90), moderate-/high-risk cannabis (AOR: 3.82), and binge drinking (AOR; 3.28) were associated with high-risk cocaine/crack use. CONCLUSION: Our study found a high frequency, significant overlap in the use of cannabis and cocaine/crack use and violence associated with these drugs consumption among TGW, highlighting the urgent need for health policies for drug disorders among this socially marginalized group.

A two-year review of cocaine findings in impaired driving investigations in Ontario, Canada.

Drug-impaired driving is an increasing public safety concern across Canada, particularly due to the demonstrated increase in use of recreational drugs such as cocaine. Cocaine is a central nervous system stimulant drug; however, it can impair an individual's driving ability in both the stimulant and crash phases. Despite the scientific consensus regarding cocaine's potential for driving impairment, there is relatively little information available regarding blood concentrations and associated observations of impairment in suspected impaired drivers. Retrospective data analysis was performed to evaluate suspected impaired driving cases in which cocaine and/or benzoylecgonine were detected alone, or in combination with other drugs, in blood and urine samples submitted to the Toxicology Section of the Centre of Forensic Sciences with incident dates between 2021 and 2022. Cocaine and/or benzoylecgonine were detected in 46% (blood) and 66% (urine) of the total impaired driving samples submitted. In 41 cases where cocaine and/or benzoylecgonine were the only drug finding in blood, concentrations of cocaine and benzoylecgonine ranged from 0.0073 to 0.26 mg/L (mean 0.096 mg/L) and 0.13 to 5.3 mg/L (mean 2.1 mg/L), respectively. Driving observations reported by the arresting officer in cases where cocaine and/or benzoylecgonine were the only drug finding in blood and urine included the driver being involved in a collision, the vehicle leaving the roadway, erratic driving and the driver being asleep at the wheel; observations of drug impairment reported by the drug recognition expert at the time of driver evaluation included abnormal speech patterns, poor balance/incoordination, abnormal body movements and the individual falling asleep. The results provide concentrations of cocaine and benzoylecgonine observed in suspected impaired drivers, insight into observations that may be associated with prior cocaine use and additional information to inform on the effects of cocaine on driving.

Sequencing hour-level temporal patterns of polysubstance use among persons who use cocaine, alcohol, and cannabis: A back-translational approach.

BACKGROUND: Polysubstance use is highly prevalent among persons who use cocaine; however, little is known about how alcohol and cannabis are used with cocaine. We identified temporal patterns of cocaine+alcohol and cocaine+cannabis polysubstance use to inform more translationally relevant preclinical models. METHODS: Participants who used cocaine plus alcohol and/or cannabis at least once in the past 30 days (n=148) were interviewed using the computerized Substance Abuse Module and the newer Polysubstance Use-Temporal Patterns Section. For each day in the past 30 days, participants reported whether they had used cocaine, alcohol, and cannabis; if any combinations of use were endorsed, participants described detailed hourly use of each substance on the most "typical day" for the combination. Sequence analysis and hierarchical clustering were applied to identify patterns of timing of drug intake on typical days of cocaine polysubstance use. RESULTS: We identified five temporal patterns among the 180 sequences of reported cocaine polysubstance use: 1) limited cocaine/cocaine+alcohol use (53%); 2) extensive cannabis then cocaine+alcohol+cannabis use (22%); 3) limited alcohol/cannabis then cocaine+alcohol use (13%); 4) extensive cocaine+cannabis then cocaine+alcohol+cannabis use (4%); and 5) extensive cocaine then cocaine+alcohol use (8%). While drug intake patterns differed, prevalence of use disorders did not. CONCLUSIONS: Patterns were characterized by cocaine, alcohol, and cannabis polysubstance use and by the timing, order, duration, and quantity of episode-level substance use. The identification of real-world patterns of cocaine polysubstance use represents an important step toward developing laboratory models that accurately reflect human behavior.

A narrative systematic review of associations and temporality between use of methamphetamine, ecstasy/MDMA, or cocaine with anxiety or depressive symptoms.

OBJECTIVE: Anxiety and depression are prevalent mental health problems in people who use illicit stimulants. Improved understanding of the temporal relationship between methamphetamine, ecstasy/MDMA, or cocaine use with anxiety or depression informs public health interventions and treatment options for those experiencing this co-occurrence. This narrative systematic review sought to examine associations and temporality between the use of methamphetamine, ecstasy/MDMA, or cocaine, with anxiety or depressive symptoms. Method Systematic searches of 4 electronic databases were conducted up to August 2023. Study eligibility included the measurement of anxiety and/or depressive symptoms, and frequency of illicit stimulant use (methamphetamine, cocaine, or ecstasy/MDMA) at two separate time points, with data analysis of the association between these variables. The Joanna Briggs Critical Appraisal Checklist was utilised to assess quality. Data was extracted, and a narrative synthesis incorporating an eight-criteria framework to assess associations was conducted. Results 4432 studies were screened for eligibility; 11 studies (3 RCTs and 8 prospective cohort studies) were included. Evidence for an association between depressive symptoms and methamphetamine use was demonstrated in six studies, with temporal evidence in three studies supporting methamphetamine use preceding depressive symptoms. Three studies reported an association between cocaine use and depressive symptoms. Evidence for associations with any of the illicit stimulants and anxiety symptoms was lacking. CONCLUSIONS: There was some evidence to support a case for temporality, particularly for methamphetamine use and depressive symptoms. Investing in longitudinal studies is pivotal to understanding the dynamic and reciprocal relationship between illicit stimulant use and anxiety or depressive symptoms. A limitation of the study was the variation in the measurement and analysis of outcomes.

Examining the social and behavioral dynamics of substance use in a longitudinal network study in rural Appalachia.

BACKGROUND: Prior studies have shown that individuals and their peers often have similar substance use behaviors, but the mechanisms driving these similarities - particularly in rural settings, are not well understood. The primary objectives of this analysis are to (1) identify factors that contribute to relationship turnover and maintenance within a rural network of persons who use drugs (PWUD), (2) determine whether assimilation and/or homophily shape participants use of injection drugs, heroin, and stimulants (methamphetamine and cocaine), and (3) assess the extent that these mechanisms influence networks ties and/or behaviors and whether these effects vary across time. METHODS: Sociometric network data were collected from a cohort of PWUD in rural Eastern Kentucky at baseline (2008-2010) and at four follow-up visits conducted approximately semiannually. Stochastic actor-oriented models (SAOMS) were used to model network structure and participant behaviors as jointly dependent variables and to identify characteristics associated with the maintenance, dissolution, and formation of network ties and changes in drug use behaviors. RESULTS: Findings suggest (1) greater network stability over time for reciprocal and transitive relationships, (2) both homophily and assimilation played a greater role in shaping injection drug use (IDU) initiation and cessation than they did in shaping heroin and stimulant use, and (3) the importance of these mechanisms appeared consistent over time. CONCLUSION: Given the stability of particular network structures and evidence of both homophily and assimilation with respect to drug-use behaviors, interventions that leverage social networks could be used to motivate health-promoting behaviors.

Sociodemographic and clinical profile of crack cocaine treatment-seeking individuals living in "Crackland", Brazil / Perfil sociodemográfico e clínico de indivíduos em busca de tratamento para o uso de crack que vivem na "Cracolândia"

OBJECTIVE: São Paulo's Crackland is the biggest and oldest open drug use scene in Brazil, yet little is known about the profile of crack cocaine treatment-seeking individuals living in this region. The aim of this crossectional study was to describe the demographics and clinical characteristics of treatment-seeking crack users living in the Crackland region. METHODS: A sample of nighty eight individuals were screened for DSM-V substance use disorders, including substance use, impulsiveness, and psychiatric symptoms. Recent crack cocaine use was also tested using biologic specimens. RESULTS: Results indicated severe social vulnerability, as participants experienced high rates of homelessness (46.9%), unstable housing (50%), unemployment (60.4%) and early school drop-out (27.5%). The average age of crack use onset was 20 years (SD = 6.9) and the mean duration of continuous crack use was 15 years (SD = 9.7). Most participants presented with concomitant mental health disorders, particularly alcohol use disorder (87.8%), as well high rates of psychiatric symptomatology and impulsiveness. More than half of the sample reported at least one previous inpatient (73.5%) and outpatient (65.3%) addiction treatment attempt. CONCLUSION: This population profile should inform mental healthcare services, promoting the provision of tailored assistance by targeting specific demands at all levels of treatment.

OBJETIVO: Localizada em São Paulo, a Cracolândia é o maior e mais antigo cenário aberto de uso de drogas do Brasil. Ainda assim, pouco se sabe sobre o perfil dos indivíduos que vivem nessa região e buscam tratamento para crack. O objetivo deste estudo transversal foi descrever características demográficas e clínicas de usuários de crack vivendo na região da Cracolândia que estão em busca de tratamento. MÉTODOS: Noventa e oito indivíduos foram avaliados para transtornos por uso de substâncias do DSM-V, padrão de uso de substâncias, impulsividade e sintomatologia psiquiátrica. O uso recente de crack também foi determinado por meio de coleta de amostras toxicológicas. RESULTADOS: Os resultados indicaram grave vulnerabilidade social, com significativas prevalências de falta de moradia (46,9%), moradia instável (50%), desemprego (60,4%) e abandono escolar precoce (27,5%). A idade média de início do uso de crack foi de 20 anos (DP = 6,9) e a duração média do uso contínuo do crack foi de 15 anos (DP = 9,7). A maioria dos participantes apresentou alguma comorbidade psiquiátrica, particularmente transtorno por uso de álcool (87,8%), bem como altas taxas de sintomatologia psiquiátrica e impulsividade. Mais da metade da amostra relatou pelo menos uma tentativa anterior de tratamento por internação (73,5%) e ambulatorial (65,3%). CONCLUSÃO: Os achados desse estudo permitem um maior entendimento do perfil e das necessidades de usuários de crack vivendo na região da Cracolândia e podem ajudar serviços de saúde especializados em dependência química a promoverem uma assistência mais direcionada às demandas específicas dessa população.

O consumo de crack por mulheres: uma análise sobre os sentidos construídos por profissionais de consultórios na rua da cidade do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil / Womens crack consumption: an analysis on the meanings constructed by the street clinics consulting professionals of the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Resumo Este artigo problematiza os sentidos construídos por profissionais de Consultórios na Rua (CnaR) sobre o consumo de crack por mulheres e suas implicações às práticas de cuidado. Pesquisa qualitatitava realizada junto a quatro equipes de CnaR (eCnaR) que atuam em três territórios do município do Rio de Janeiro, totalizando 25 profissionais. Produzidos a partir de grupos focais, os dados empíricos apontam para a diversidade de sentidos na compreensão do crack, entendido como a "droga da morte" ou a 'pedra da felicidade'.A discussão e a análise dos dados revelam que o gênero é incorporado de modo controverso no cotidiano dos serviços: mesmo que os discursos sinalizem para diferenças nos padrões de consumo de crack entre homens e mulheres, no acesso e uso dos serviços psicossociais e na forma de obtenção da droga, as mulheres continuam sendo pensadas pela sua capacidade reprodutiva. Apontam, ainda, que mesmo nos serviços da rede assistencial de saúde, usuárias de crack são estigmatizadas: por serem mulheres que consomem crack e pela situação de rua. Sinalizam que impera na organização da rede de serviços o ideário da mulher-mãe. Advoga-se pelo imperativo da incorporação do referencial empírico-analítico dos estudos de gênero na política de atenção à saúde de usuários de crack.

Abstract This paper questions the meanings constructed by professionals of Street Clinics (eCnaR) on the consumption of crack by women and their implications to care practices. This is qualitative research carried out with four eCnaRs (eCnaR) teams working in three territories of the city of Rio de Janeiro, totaling 25 professionals. Produced from focus groups, the empirical data point to the several meanings in the understanding of crack, understood as the "death drug" or the "stone of happiness". Discussion and analysis of data reveal that gender is incorporated controversially in the daily life of services: even if the discourses indicate different patterns of crack use between men and women, access to and use of psychosocial services and in the way of obtaining the drug, women continue to be thought of because of their reproductive capacity. They also point out that even in health care network services, female crack users are stigmatized because they are women who consume crack and because they live in the streets. They indicate that the mother-woman's ideology prevails in the organization of the service network. It is advocated that the empirical-analytical reference of gender studies must be incorporated into the health care policy of crack users.

Physical violence inside female prisons in Brazil: prevalence and related factors / Violência física dentro das prisões femininas no Brasil: prevalência e fatores relacionados

Abstract The present study aims to identify the prevalence of physical violence against female prisoners in Brazil, as well as related factors. This is a cross-sectional national survey conducted in 15 female prisons in five regions of Brazil selected in multiple stages. The following types of analysis were performed: univariate analysis; stratified analysis relating the outcome (suffer physical violence inside prison) to predictor variables, using the Pearson chi-square test; calculation of the Odds Ratio (O.R.); and multiple logistic regression. The Hosmer-Lemeshow test was used for analysis of goodness of fit and adequacy of the model. The prevalence of physical violence inside female prisons was 37.4%. There was a correlation between physical violence victimization in prison and the following variables: physical victimization prior to arrest (p = 0.013), solitary confinement (p = 0.000), mental suffering (p = 0.003), current or previous abusive intake of alcohol (p = 0.011), current or previous injection of cocaine (p = 0.002) and not performing prison labor (p = 0.003). Physical violence has become inherent in the Brazilian female prison system. Continued studies are needed to monitor the situation and to develop interventions to prevent physical violence inside the facilities.

Resumo O presente artigo objetiva identificar a prevalência de violência física no interior das prisões femininas brasileiras, bem como fatores associados. Estudo transversal de abrangência nacional, realizado em 15 unidades prisionais femininas nas cinco regiões do Brasil em amostra selecionada por múltiplos estágios. Realizou-se análise univariada; análise estratificada em relação ao desfecho (sofrer violência física dentro da prisão) e as variáveis preditoras através do teste de Chi-quadrado de Pearson; cálculo da Odds Ratio; e regressão logística múltipla. Utilizou-se o teste Hosmer-Lemeshow para análise de qualidade de ajuste e adequação do modelo. A prevalência de violência física dentro das prisões femininas brasileiras foi de 37.4%. Houve correlação entre a vitimização da violência física na prisão e as seguintes variáveis: vitimização física prévia (p = 0.013), isolamento (p = 0.000), sofrimento mental (p = 0.003), ingestão abusiva e/ou dependência alcoólica (p = 0.011), uso atual ou prévio de cocaína injetável (p = 0.002) e ócio prisional (p = 0.003). A violência física tornou-se inerente ao sistema prisional feminino brasileiro. Estudos futuros são necessários no intuito de fornecer propostas para intervenções efetivas de modo a prevenir a violência física dentro das instalações prisionais.

Uso de crack e outras drogas: percepção familiar em relação à rede de suporte em um centro de referência / The use of crack and other drugs: the perception of family members in relation to the support network in a reference center

Resumo O uso abusivo de substâncias psicoativas é um problema para a saúde em todo o mundo, pois possui ampla magnitude, na infância e na vida adulta. O objetivo deste artigo é compreender os sentimentos e as percepções dos familiares sobre a rede de apoio, cuidado e tratamento dos filhos usuários de crack e outras drogas acompanhados em um centro de referência. Como trajetória metodológica, foi utilizada a pesquisa qualitativa, com dados coletados e analisados à luz do referencial da Fenomenologia. A pesquisa foi realizada no CERSAMi de Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais. Foram entrevistados 11 participantes, sendo a saturação o critério de finalização. A análise foi fundamentada em três etapas: a descrição, a redução e a compreensão fenomenológica. Os resultados evidenciaram categorias, cada qual, com seus temas de análise ou subcategorias. Como proposta para o trabalho, a fundamentação, a apresentação e a discussão estão fundamentadas na categoria: Sentimentos e percepções dos familiares em relação à rede de apoio, ao cuidado e ao tratamento. No encontro com os sujeitos e na imersão das falas, evidenciam-se momentos que fragilizam a estrutura da família. Na realidade diária se estabelece um futuro de incertezas em relação ao cuidado, ao apoio e à reabilitação dos filhos.

Abstract The abuse of psychoactive drugs is a health problem throughout the entire world, as its magnitude pervades childhood and adult life. The objective of this article is to understand the feelings and perceptions of family members regarding the support network, care and treatment of their offspring who use crack and associated drugs, in the context of a reference center for treatment. In line with methodological approach, qualitative research was used, with data collected and analyzed under the light of Phenomenology. The research was conducted at Belo Horizonte's CERSAMi in the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Eleven participants were interviewed, their participation being finalized at saturation point. The analysis was founded on three steps: description, reduction and phenomenological comprehension. Proposal for the work: the foundation, the presentation and the discussion are founded in the category Feelings and perceptions of family members in relation to the network for support, care and treatment. In the encounter with the subjects and during their immersion in discourse, moments which make family structure fragile are noticeable. In the day-to-day reality there becomes established a future of uncertainties in relation to the care, support and rehabilitation of the children.

Active Brazilian crack cocaine users: nutritional, anthropometric, and drug use profiles

Objective: To evaluate the nutritional status of crack users and to analyze its correlation with drug use profiles. Methods: Cross-sectional study with 108 crack users. Anthropometric data were assessed through body mass index (BMI) and bioimpedance (BIA) measurements. A blood test to analyze hematocrit, hemoglobin, glucose, and lipid profiles was also performed. Crack use was determined through a standardized interview. Results: Based on BMI and BIA, most individuals were eutrophic (about 70%). Regarding hematological parameters, we found that hemoglobin and hematocrit levels were below normal for 32.4 and 30.6% of patients, respectively. Considering normal parameters, a large part of the sample (60.2%) had low levels of HDL cholesterol and high levels of triglycerides (38%). There were no significant correlations between drug profile and nutritional variables. Conclusion: This is a pioneering study that examines the nutritional status of crack users. Our results showed that most crack users present normal anthropometric findings and the prevalence of underweight is low. However, blood analysis showed changes and a specific type of malnutrition.

Usuários de crack em tratamento em Comunidades Terapêuticas: perfil e prevalência / Crack cocaine users in treatment in Therapeutic Communities: profile and prevalence / Consumidores de crack en el tratamiento en Comunidades Terapéuticas: perfil y prevalencia

O estudo teve por objetivo avaliar a prevalência, o perfil e as diferenças entre gênero em usuários de crack atendidos em Comunidades Terapêuticas (CTs) da Zona da Mata, Minas Gerais, Brasil. Para avaliar a prevalência, inicialmente entrevistou-se todos os 34 indivíduos que deram entrada nas CTs num período de dois meses, dos quais 82,4% era por uso de crack. Em um segundo momento, para o estudo de perfil, foram entrevistados 54 homens e 18 mulheres por meio de um questionário contendo informações sociodemográficas, Teste de triagem do envolvimento com álcool, tabaco e outras (Assist) e o Addiction Severity Index (ASI6). A amostra foi caracterizada predominantemente por homens, solteiros, adultos (30 anos), sem trabalho, dependentes da família, com defasagem escolar, classe média e religião protestante. Dependentes de múltiplas drogas, com histórico e problemas recentes de violência, legais, psiquiátricos, bom suporte sociofamiliar e poucos problemas de saúde. As mulheres apresentaram especificidades de problemas psiquiátricos e histórico de abuso sexual e de guarda de filhos. Os resultados fornecem melhor compreensão sobre a população atendida em CTs, que ainda são pouco reconhecidas pelo Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS)

This study describes the prevalence and profile of men and women, which are crack cocaine users, attended in three Therapeutic Communities in Zona da Mata, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. To evaluate the prevalence, we initially interviewed all 34 individuals who entered the TCs in a two-month period, of whom, 82.4 % was for crack cocaine use. In a second moment, 54 men and 18 women were interviewed using a questionnaire containing sociodemographic information, Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test (Assist) and Addiction Severity Index (ASI6). The prevalent profile was formed by men, unmarried, aged 30, who did not work, lived with and depended on the family, school delay, middle-class and Protestant religion. Men and women were dependent on multiple drugs, with historical and recent violence, legal and psychiatric problems, good social and familial support, and few health problems. Women presented specificities of psychiatric problems and history of sexual abuse and child custody. Results were compared with profiles of studies with clinical and no clinical samples and provide better understanding of the population served in TCs, newly recognized by the SUS, but little known

El estudio tuvo como objetivo evaluar la prevalencia, el perfil y las diferencias entre género en usuarios de crack atendidos en Comunidades Terapéuticas (CTs) de Zona da Mata, Minas Gerais, Brasil. Para evaluar la prevalencia, inicialmente se entrevistó a los 34 individuos que ingresaron en las CTs en un período de dos meses, de los cuales el 82,4% era por uso de crack. En un segundo momento, para el estudio de perfil, se entrevistaron 54 hombres y 18 mujeres a través de un cuestionario que contenía informaciones sociodemográficas, Prueba de implicación con alcohol, tabaco y otras (Assist) y Addiction Severity Index (ASI6). La muestra se caracterizó predominantemente por hombres, solteros, adultos (30 años), sin trabajo, dependientes de la familia, con inadaptación escolar, clase media y religión protestante. Dependientes de múltiples drogas, con historial y problemas recientes de violencia, legales, psiquiátricos, buen soporte socio familiar y pocos problemas de salud. Las mujeres presentaron especificidades de problemas psiquiátricos e históricos de abuso sexual y de custodia de hijos. Los resultados proporcionan una mejor comprensión sobre la población atendida en CTs, que aún son poco reconocidas por el Sistema Único de Salud (SUS)

Hepatitis C: clinical and biological features related to different forms of cocaine use / Hepatite C: características clínicas e biológicas relacionadas às diferentes formas de uso da cocaína

Abstract Introduction Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is related with several liver diseases such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinomas, leading to more than 0.5 million deaths every year and to a great global burden. It is known that injection drug users show a high prevalence of HCV infection, being considered a risk group for this disease. Cocaine users seem to be in greater risk than other drug users, and several hypotheses for this association are being studied. Aim To review data on HCV infection in cocaine users, taking into consideration the relevance of the different routes of drug administration and other risk behaviors. Methods This was a narrative review performed in the main scientific databases. Results and conclusion Data suggest that cocaine use could be associated with HCV infection due to the specificities of cocaine consumption pattern, even in those subjects who do not inject drugs, in addition to other risky behaviors, such as tattooing and unprotected sex. Injectable cocaine users seem to be more susceptible to contamination than users who do not inject drugs. However, evidence is pointing to the possibility of infection by sharing drug paraphernalia other than syringes. Moreover, specific immune system impairments caused by cocaine use are also being linked with HCV infection susceptibility, persistence and increased pathological effects.

Resumo Introdução O vírus da hepatite C (HCV) está relacionado com graves patologias hepáticas, como a cirrose e o carcinoma hepatocelular, causando mais de meio milhão de mortes todos os anos, o que reflete um problema de saúde mundial. Sabe-se que usuários de drogas injetáveis possuem alta prevalência de infecção pelo HCV, sendo por isso considerados um dos maiores grupos de risco. Usuários de cocaína parecem ter maior risco de contrair o vírus do que usuários de outras drogas, e diversas hipóteses para essa associação estão sendo estudadas. Objetivo Revisar evidências de associação da infecção pelo HCV em usuários de cocaína, considerando a relevância das diferentes formas de administração da droga e comportamentos de risco. Métodos Esta foi uma revisão narrativa realizada nos principais bancos de dados científicos. Resultados e conclusão As evidências atuais sugerem que o uso de cocaína pode estar associado com a infecção por HCV devido às especificidades do padrão de consumo da droga, mesmo naqueles indivíduos que não fazem uso de drogas injetáveis, além de outros comportamentos de risco, como tatuagens e sexo desprotegido. Usuários de cocaína injetável parecem estar mais suscetíveis à contaminação do que usuários de cocaína não injetável. Entretanto, há a possibilidade de infecção devido ao compartilhamento de outros equipamentos de uso além das seringas (cachimbos, por exemplo). Além disso, prejuízos do sistema imune causados pela cocaína também parecem estar associados com a suscetibilidade de infecção pelo HCV, além da manutenção e piora dos sintomas da doença.

À margem: uso de crack, desvio, criminalização e exclusão social - uma revisão narrativa / On the sidelines of society: crack use, deviation, criminalization and social exclusion - a narrative review

Resumo O artigo faz uma revisão narrativa da literatura científica visando identificar e discutir os contextos de vulnerabilidade e exclusão social que situam os usuários de crack e outras drogas à margem da norma social no contexto brasileiro e internacional. Lança-se mão de uma variedade de marcos teóricos de modo a integrar as áreas temática do uso de drogas, com ênfase no de crack e sua inter-relação com vulnerabilidade social, marginalidade, exclusão social e desvio. Inicialmente são discutidos aspectos gerais da pesquisa qualitativa em drogas. Em seguida são pontuadas questões acerca da exclusão e vulnerabilidade social dos usuários de crack, seguido das principais associações descritas na literatura sobre uso de drogas e envolvimento criminal. Por fim, o conceito de “margens do Estado” é discutido através do exemplo de situações vivenciadas pelos usuários de crack e outras drogas, como relatado pela literatura.

Abstract The article comprises a narrative review of the scientific literature, aiming to identify and discuss the contexts of vulnerability and social exclusion faced by users of crack cocaine and other substances who live on the sidelines of society in the Brazilian and international context. The paper summarizes insights from different theoretical frameworks, focusing on an integrated perspective of substance use and abuse, with an emphasis on the use of crack and its inter-relationships with social vulnerability, marginalization, social exclusion and deviation. In a first step, broad aspects of qualitative research on drugs are outlined. The subsequent section highlights issues associated with exclusion and social vulnerability of crack users, followed by an assessment of the main associations mentioned in the literature on drug use and criminal involvement. Finally, the concept of “sidelines of society” is discussed, as exemplified by situations and events experienced by users of crack and other substances, as mentioned in the literature.

Amphetamine-type stimulant use and conditional paths of consumption: data from the Second Brazilian National Alcohol and Drugs Survey

Objective: The aim of this study was to estimate nationally representative prevalence rates of amphetamine-type stimulant (ATS) use and to identify consumption-associated factors, proposing a conditional model of direct and indirect consumption paths. Method: Using data from the Second Brazilian National Alcohol and Drugs Survey, this cross-sectional study analyzed a subsample of 3,828 participants between 15 and 64 years old, gathering information on the use of psychoactive substances in a probabilistic sample of the Brazilian household population. Results: Rates of lifetime and last-year ATS use were, respectively, 4.1 and 1.6%. Economically privileged individuals and users of other substances were more at risk for using ATS. The results suggest that higher education decreases the chances of ATS consumption. The conditional model showed that higher income increased ATS use, higher education lowered the odds of such an increase, and cocaine use cancelled that associative effect. Conclusion: Brazil presents high rates of ATS use. Prevention and treatment strategies should focus on the protective effect of higher education levels and should target polydrug use. Knowledge of ATS-associated factors and user profiles is the starting point for developing effective treatments and tailored prevention strategies.

Semelhanças e contrastes nos padrões de uso de crack em Santa Catarina, Brasil: capital vs Meio Oeste / Similarities and differences in crack cocaine use patterns in Santa Catarina, Brazil: Capital vs. Midwest

Resumo O crack é um problema relevante de saúde pública no Brasil, em função dos danos e riscos individuais e sociais secundários ao seu uso/abuso. O objetivo deste artigo é descrever características das cenas de uso de crack na Capital e no Meio-Oeste de Santa Catarina. O projeto se valeu da metodologia Time-Location Sampling. Em janeiro-junho de 2011, foram mapeadas 41 cenas de uso de crack na Capital e 33 no Meio-Oeste catarinense. Após seleção aleatória das cenas a serem observadas, foram sorteados os dias e os turnos em que estas seriam observadas em detalhe, totalizando 98 cenas/turno na Capital e 62 no Meio-O-este. As observações foram registradas em caderno de campo, analisadas via análise de conteúdo de Bardin e discutidas à luz da literatura nacional e internacional. Os usuários de crack entrevistados eram majoritariamente adultos do sexo masculino, com uma maior associação entre estar em situação de rua e consumir a droga na Capital. Enquanto no Meio-Oeste a maioria das cenas estavam ativas no período noturno, na Capital, apresentaram-se ativas em todos os períodos. Foram identificadas práticas de risco associadas ao uso do crack, como associação de múltiplas drogas, prostituição, compartilhamento de cachimbo e favores sexuais em troca da substância.

Abstract Crack cocaine has been a major public health problem in Brazil due to the individual and social harms and risks deriving from its use. This article aims to assess the characteristics of drug scenes in the capital and Midwest of Santa Catarina state. The project used the Time-Location Sampling. Between January and June 2011, 41 crack cocaine scenes were mapped in capital of Santa Catarina, whereas 33 were mapped in the Midwest of that state. Such scenes were randomly selected to be observed, as well as their days and shifts (time periods/day) for in-depth observation. Overall, 98 scenes/shifts were observed in the capital and 62 in the Midwest. First-hand reports were logged as field notes into notebooks. Analyses of the empirical material were based on Bardin's content analysis, and findings were compared and contrasted with Brazilian and international literature. Most crack cocaine users were adult males. In the capital, a substantial fraction of the users lived in the streets, but in both settings most interviewees have used multiple substances. In the Midwest, most scenes occurred at night, whereas in the capital scenes occurred in all shifts. Risk practices associated with the use of crack cocaine were: association of multiple drugs, prostitution, pipe sharing and sexual favors in exchange for the substance.

Depression, anxiety, hopelessness and quality of life in users of cocaine/crack in outpatient treatment / Depressão, ansiedade, desesperança e qualidade de vida em usuários de cocaína/crack em tratamento ambulatorial

Abstract Objective: To identify symptoms of anxiety, depression, and feelings of hopelessness in patients in outpatient treatment for substance dependency and to test for correlations with various aspects of their quality of life. Methods: A cross-sectional study of a sample of 25 men in recuperation from substance dependency, selected by convenience. We assessed symptoms of depression (Beck Depression Inventory-II), anxiety (Beck Anxiety Inventory), hopelessness (Beck Hopelessness Scale), and quality of life (World Health Organization Quality of Life instrument-Abbreviated version [WHOQOL-Bref]), and also analyzed sociodemographic profile, substance abuse, and family history. Categorical variables were expressed as frequencies and percentages and quantitative variables as means and standard deviations or as medians and interquartile ranges. We also analyzed Spearman correlations to a 5% significance level. Results: The study revealed prevalence rates of 32% for depression, 24% for anxiety, and 12% for hopelessness, at a moderate/severe level. Correlations between Beck scales and WHOQOL-Bref were significant; but impacts differed in the four areas evaluated. Conclusions: Overall, we observe global negative impacts on subjects' lives, affecting their psychiatric symptoms and quality of life and their relationships and occupational factors to a similar degree. The results show that the lower the scores on these scales, the better the quality of life in some areas, indicating that there is a negative correlation between psychiatric symptoms and quality of life.

Resumo Objetivo: Identificar sintomas de ansiedade, depressão e sentimentos de desesperança em pacientes dependentes químicos em tratamento ambulatorial e verificar a existência de correlações com os diferentes âmbitos da qualidade de vida. Métodos: Estudo transversal com 25 homens em recuperação para dependência química, selecionados por conveniência. Foram avaliados sintomas de depressão (Inventário de Depressão de Beck-II), ansiedade (Inventário de Ansiedade de Beck) desesperança (Escala de Desesperança de Beck) e qualidade de vida (World Health Organization Quality of Life instrument-Abbreviated version [WHOQOL-Bref]), bem como perfil sociodemográfico, uso de substâncias e histórico familiar. Variáveis categóricas foram apresentadas como frequências e percentuais, e variáveis quantitativas, como médias e desvios-padrão ou medianas e intervalos interquartis. Foram utilizadas também correlações de Spearman com nível de significância de 5%. Resultados: O estudo revelou prevalência de 32% para depressão, 24% para ansiedade e 12% para desesperança, em níveis moderado/grave. As correlações entre os inventários Beck e o WHOQOL-Bref foram significantes; entretanto, os impactos diferiram nos quatro domínios avaliados. Conclusões: De modo geral, observaram-se prejuízos globais na vida dos sujeitos, tanto frente a sintomas psiquiátricos e qualidade de vida quanto sobre relacionamentos e questões ocupacionais, em níveis semelhantes. Os resultados apontam que, quanto menor a pontuação nesses inventários, melhor a qualidade de vida em alguns domínios, indicando haver correlação negativa entre sintomas psiquiátricos e qualidade de vida.