Street drugs associated with acute poisoning: description and analysis of differences in women attended in a hospital emergency department. / Drogas de abuso asociadas a las intoxicaciones agudas: descripción global y análisis de las diferencias en mujeres atendidas en el servicio de urgencias.

OBJECTIVES: The prevalence of street drug abuse is difficult to establish in women because of stigma associated with the practice. The main objective of this study was to analyze possible differences between men and women in a sample of patients attended for emergencies due to acute poisonings. The secondary aim was to identify variables associated with severe poisonings defined arbitrarily as requiring intensive care for more than 12 hours after hospital admission. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective study in 2 hospital EDs. We included patients over the age of 18 years attended for street drug poisonings between July 1, 2020, and July 31, 2023. Epidemiologic, clinical, and laboratory variables were analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 1032 patients were studied; 191 (18.5%) were women. The mean (SD) age was 35 years, and the prevalences of acute mental illness and HIV infection were high at 32.2% and 35.7%, respectively. Drug use was recreational in most cases (90.9%). Cocaine, alcohol, and methamphetamines were the substances most often used. Multivariate analysis showed that the factors associated with the seriousness of poisoning were age, with an odds ratio (OR) of 1.03 (95% CI, 1.01-1.05; P = .003); HIV (OR, 2.10; 95% CI, 1.29-3.41; P = .003); use of benzodiazepines (OR, 3.48; 95% CI, 2.14-5.66; P .0001); and suicidal ideations (OR, 1.82; 95% CI, 1.25-3.79; P = .004). CONCLUSION: Differences in poisoning characteristics in women were found, probably related to the younger ages of men in the sample and their higher frequency of alcohol consumption. Public health policies and campaigns to prevent drug abuse should take gender differences into consideration in order to adapt messages to the target populations.

OBJETIVO: La prevalencia del uso de drogas de abuso es difícil de establecer en mujeres, debido a los estigmas asociados a ello. El objetivo principal fue analizar las posibles diferencias de las intoxicaciones agudas (IA) según el sexo en una muestra de pacientes atendidos en dos servicios de urgencias hospitalarios (SUH). El objetivo secundario fue identificar las variables asociadas a las intoxicaciones graves, definidas de forma arbitraria como las que requerían una atención intensiva médica de más de 12 horas y posterior ingreso hospitalario. METODO: Estudio retrospectivo en dos SUH que incluyeron pacientes mayores de 18 años atendidos por IA por drogas de abuso, en el periodo comprendido entre el 1 de julio 2020 y el 31 de julio 2023. Se recogieron variables epidemiológicas, clínicas y de laboratorio. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 1.032 pacientes, un 18,5% (191) mujeres. La edad media fue de 35 (DE 10) años, con elevada prevalencia de enfermedad mental aguda (32,2%) e infección por VIH (35,7%). El principal motivo de consumo fue lúdico (90,9%). Las principales drogas de abuso fueron cocaína, alcohol y metanfetaminas. El análisis multivariado mostró que únicamente la edad (OR: 1,03, IC 95: 1,01-1,05, p = 0,003), el VIH (OR: 2,10, IC 95: 1,29-3,41, p = 0,003), el consumo de benzodiacepinas (OR: 3,48, IC 95%: 2,14-5,66, p 0,0001), y la ideación autolítica (OR: 1,82, IC 95%: 1,25-3,79, p = 0,004), se asociaron a gravedad de la intoxicación. CONCLUSIONES: Las IA por drogas de abuso en mujeres presentan algunas diferencias en relación a las de los hombres, ya que son más jóvenes y asocian consumo de alcohol con mayor frecuencia. Las campañas de prevención y políticas sanitarias sobre el uso de sustancias deberían tener en cuenta las diferencias en el consumo según el sexo para adaptarlas a la población a las que vayan dirigidas.

Drogas de abuso asociadas a las intoxicaciones agudas: descripción global y análisis de las diferencias en mujeres atendidas en el servicio de urgencias / Street drugs associated with acute poisoning: description and analysis of differences in women attended in a hospital emergency department

Objetivos. La prevalencia del uso de drogas de abuso es difícil de establecer en mujeres, debido a los estigmas asociados a ello. El objetivo principal fue analizar las posibles diferencias de las intoxicaciones agudas (IA) según el sexo en una muestra de pacientes atendidos en dos servicios de urgencias hospitalarios (SUH). El objetivo secundario fue identificar las variables asociadas a las intoxicaciones graves, definidas de forma arbitraria como las que requerían una atención intensiva médica de más de 12 horas y posterior ingreso hospitalario. Métodos. Estudio retrospectivo en dos SUH que incluyeron pacientes mayores de 18 años atendidos por IA por drogas de abuso, en el periodo comprendido entre el 1 de julio 2020 y el 31 de julio 2023. Se recogieron variables epidemiológicas, clínicas y de laboratorio. Resultados. Se incluyeron 1.032 pacientes, un 18,5% (191) mujeres. La edad media fue de 35 (DE 10) años, con elevada prevalencia de enfermedad mental aguda (32,2%) e infección por VIH (35,7%). El principal motivo de consumo fue lúdico (90,9%). Las principales drogas de abuso fueron cocaína, alcohol y metanfetaminas. El análisis multivariado mostró que únicamente la edad (OR: 1,03, IC 95%: 1,01-1,05, p = 0,003), el VIH (OR: 2,10, IC 95%: 1,29-3,41, p = 0,003), el consumo de benzodiacepinas (OR: 3,48, IC 95%: 2,14-5,66, p < 0,0001), y la ideación autolítica (OR: 1,82, IC 95%: 1,25-3,79, p = 0,004), se asociaron a gravedad de la intoxicación. Conclusiones. Las IA por drogas de abuso en mujeres presentan algunas diferencias en relación a las de los hombres, ya que son más jóvenes y asocian consumo de alcohol con mayor frecuencia. Las campañas de prevención y políticas sanitarias sobre el uso de sustancias deberían tener en cuenta las diferencias en el consumo según el sexo para adaptarlas a la población a las que vayan dirigidas. (AU)

Background. The prevalence of street drug abuse is difficult to establish in women because of stigma associated withthe practice. The main objective of this study was to analyze possible differences between men and women in a sample of patients attended for emergencies due to acute poisonings. The secondary aim was to identify variables associated with severe poisonings defined arbitrarily as requiring intensive care for more than 12 hours after hospital admission. Methods. Retrospective study in 2 hospital EDs. We included patients over the age of 18 years attended for street drug poisonings between July 1, 2020, and July 31, 2023. Epidemiologic, clinical, and laboratory variables were analyzed. Results. A total of 1032 patients were studied; 191 (18.5%) were women. The mean (SD) age was 35 years, and the prevalences of acute mental illness and HIV infection were high at 32.2% and 35.7%, respectively. Drug use was recreational in most cases (90.9%). Cocaine, alcohol, and methamphetamines were the substances most often used. Multivariate analysis showed that the factors associated with the seriousness of poisoning were age, with an odds ratio (OR) of 1.03 (95% CI, 1.01-1.05; P = .003); HIV (OR, 2.10; 95% CI, 1.29-3.41; P = .003); use of benzodiazepines (OR, 3.48; 95% CI, 2.14-5.66; P < .0001); and suicidal ideations (OR, 1.82; 95% CI, 1.25-3.79; P = .004). Conclusions. Differences in poisoning characteristics in women were found, probably related to the younger ages of men in the sample and their higher frequency of alcohol consumption. Public health policies and campaigns to prevent drug abuse should take gender differences into consideration in order to adapt messages to the target populations. (AU)

Old Drugs and New Challenges: A Narrative Review of Nitazenes.

Nitazenes are a group of compounds developed in the 1950s as opioid analgesics, but they were never approved to market. As such, they are not well known outside of academic research laboratories. A characteristic of nitazenes is their high potency (e.g., hundreds to thousands fold more potent than morphine and other opioids and tenfold more potent than fentanyl). In the past few years, several nitazenes, including "designer analogs," have been detected in the illicit drug supply and have been implicated in overdose mortality, primarily due to their exceptionally high potency. In the street drug supply, nitazenes are often found mixed with fentanyl or other agents but their presence is not always disclosed to drug buyers, who may not even be familiar with nitazenes. These drugs pose a particular challenge since there is little experience in how to reverse a nitazene overdose or potential drug-drug or drug-alcohol interactions. Public health efforts are needed to better inform street drug consumers, first responders, healthcare professionals, and the general public about these "new old drugs" that are infiltrating the recreational drug supply.

The New Stealth Drug on the Street: A Narrative Review of Xylazine as a Street Drug.

Xylazine is an alpha-adrenergic receptor agonist approved for use only in animals with a prescription from a veterinarian. It is a powerful sedative that is slowly infiltrating the recreational street drug scene and is often used by polysubstance abusers. Known as "tranq," it can be fatal, and xylazine-induced toxicity cannot be reversed with naloxone or nalmefene. Due to its vasoconstrictive effects, chronic use of xylazine is associated with necrotic skin lesions and general deterioration of health. Since xylazine is not approved for human use and is not scheduled as a controlled substance, there are no human studies to provide evidence of drug-drug interactions, lethal doses, or reversal protocols. Xylazine is available online without a prescription. Street drug users may take xylazine knowingly or unknowingly, as it is often combined with other illicit substances such as fentanyl. There are no rapid tests for xylazine, although there are specialty tests that can be ordered. Xylazine represents a major threat to street drug users and another challenge to emergency healthcare workers, first responders, and others who care for those who have taken this "new" street drug.

Consumo de drogas: enfrentamiento a un problema latente / Drug use: confronting a latent problem i: en

Algunas situaciones ponen en riesgo a Cuba en cuanto al uso de drogas, entre ellas el aumento del turismo, las relaciones con países que poseen altas tasas de consumo, la ubicación geográfica en corredores de narcotraficantes y la alta prevalencia de drogas porteras. Al respecto, el Sistema Nacional de Salud debe estar preparado para la prevención del problema y la atención a los afectados, de manera que resulta necesario mantener una información actualizada sobre los factores de riesgo y los principales productos utilizados por los consumidores. En la presente revisión bibliográfica sobre el tema se busca llamar la atención de los trabajadores de la salud en tal sentido, se ofrecen datos sobre la magnitud del problema y se abordan elementos de sus antecedentes, así como de la clasificación de las drogas, los factores de riesgo asociados a su consumo y las bases jurídicas para su control en Cuba.

Some situations put Cuba at risk for drug use, such as an increase in tourism, relations with countries that have high rates of substance abuse, the geographic location in drug trafficking corridors, and the high prevalence of "opening doors" drugs. In this regard, the National Health System must be prepared to prevent the problem and care for those affected, so it is necessary to maintain updated information on risk factors and main products used by consumers. In the present literature review on the subject, it is sought to draw the attention of health workers to this point, data on the magnitude of the problem and elements of its background are offered, as well as drug classification, the risk factors associated with its use and the legal bases for its control in Cuba.

Condiciones comunitarias y el consumo problemático de marihuana en adultos jóvenes / Community conditions and the troublesome use of cannabis in young adults

Objetivo: analizar la influencia de las condiciones comunitarias (exposición a la oportunidad de consumo y entorno del barrio) sobre el consumo problemático y reciente de marihuana en adultos jóvenes de una zona rural del norte de Nuevo León, México.Métodos: estudio analítico de casos y controles. Para confirmar el consumo reciente de marihuana se analizó una muestra de fluido oral. Además, se midieron variables sociodemográficas, se aplicó el cuestionario sobre Exposición a la Oportunidad de Consumo, la Escala de Características del Entorno del Barrioy la Prueba de Identificación de Problemas de Consumo deCannabis. Se realizaron modelos multivariantes de regresión logística.Resultados: en el 58,6% de los adultos jóvenes consumidores de marihuana se detectó un consumo reciente. Un 44,2% mostró un riesgo alto de consumo problemático de marihuana. En el modelo de regresión logística para el consumo problemático de marihuana, las variables que contribuyeron fueron la exposición a la oportunidad de consumo (OR= 1,15, IC95%: 1,10-1,21), estudiar (OR= 2,67; IC95%: 1,16-6,13) y trabajar (OR= 2,58; IC95%: 1,04-6,40). En el modelo para el consumo reciente se observó una influencia de la exposición a las oportunidades (OR= 1, 08; IC95%: 1,04-1,18) y el ser hombre (OR= 6,24; IC95%: 2,06-18,98).Conclusiones: la exposición a la oportunidad de consumo de marihuana y el dedicarse solo a estudiar o solo a trabajar fueron variables que influyeron positivamente con el consumo problemático de marihuana. Para el consumo reciente de marihuana influyeron positivamente la exposición a la oportunidad de marihuana y el ser hombre. No se mostró influencia del entorno del barrio con el consumo problemático y reciente de marihuana.(AU)

Objective: to analyse the influence of community conditions (exposure to chance of consumption and neighbourhood environment) on the recent and troublesome use of cannabis in young adults from a rural area of North Nuevo León, Mexico.Methods: an analytical case-control study. In order to confirm the recent use of cannabis, a sample of oral fluid was analysed. Sociodemographic variables were also measured, and the Exposure to Chance of Consumption questionnaire, the Neighbourhood Environment Characteristics Scale and the Test for Detection of Problems with Use of Cannabis were applied. Multivariate models of logistic regression were conducted.Results: recent use was detected in 58.6% of young adult users of cannabis; 44.2% presented high risk of troublesome consumption of cannabis. In the logistic regression model for the troublesome consumption of cannabis, the contributing variables were: exposure to chance of consumption (OR= 1.15, CI95%: 1.10-1.21), studying (OR= 2.67; CI95%: 1.16-6.13) and working (OR= 2.58; CI95%: 1.04-6.40). In the model for recent consumption, influence was observed by exposure to chances (OR= 1. 08; CI95%: 1.04-1.18) and being male (OR= 6.24; CI95%: 2.06-18.98).Conclusions: exposure to chance of cannabis consumption and sole dedication to studying or to working were variables with a positive influence on the troublesome use of cannabis. For recent use of cannabis, there was positive influence by exposure to chance of cannabis and being male. No influence by the neighbourhood environment was shown on troublesome and recent use of cannabis.(AU)

Differences in clinical signs and severity of intoxication due to street drugs in adolescents and young adults treated in emergency departments. / Características diferenciales en las manifestaciones clínicas y la gravedad de las intoxicaciones por drogas de abuso en adolescentes atendidos en servicios de urgencias en comparación con adultos jóvenes.

OBJECTIVES: To determine whether symptoms and levels of severity of intoxication from street drugs differ between adolescents and young adults who come to hospital emergency departments for treatment. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We studied a consecutive cohort of adolescents (aged 12-17 years) and young adults (aged 18-30 years) who were treated in 11 hospital emergency departments belonging to the Drug Abuse Network of Spanish Hospital Emergency Departments (REDURHE). Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics and level of severity were recorded for comparison between between adolescents and young adults, adjusted for sex, alcohol co-ingestion, and type of drug used. An intoxication was recorded as severe if at least 1 of the following indicators was present: cardiac arrest, tracheal intubation, intensive care unit admission, and in-hospital death. RESULTS: We included a total of 2181 patients: 249 adolescents (11.4%) and 1932 young adults (88.6%). Alcohol coingestion and use of multiple drugs were less common in adolescents, who had significantly more events related to cannabis (in 81.1% vs 49.0% of young adults) and benzodiazepines (13.3% vs 5.5%). The adolescents had significantly fewer intoxications from the use of cocaine (10.8% vs 45.1%), amphetamines (17.3% vs 32.3%), ketamine (0.4% vs 6.0%) and gamma-hydroxybutyrate (0.4% vs 4.0%). A higher proportion of adolescents than young adults presented with diminished consciousness (23.0% vs 16.9%), but fewer manifested anxiety (15.9% vs 26.3%), palpitations (11.0% vs 19.5%), or chest pain (2.8% vs 9.2%). The pattern of associations was similar in the subgroup of intoxications due to cannabis. The adjusted model confirmed that the adolescents were more likely to have diminished consciousness, with an odds ratio (OR) of 1.851 (95% CI, 1.204-2.844) and less likely to have anxiety (OR, 0.529 (95% CI, 0.347-0.807). Intoxication was severe in 46 patients overall (2.1%); in adolescents and young adults the proportions were 0.8% and 2.3%, respectively (P = 0.129). In adolescents, the OR was 0.568 (95% CI, 0.131-2.468) for severity; for component indicators, the ORs were 0.494 (95% CI, 0.063-3.892) for intubation and 0.780 (95% CI, 0.175-3.475) for intensive care unit admission. No deaths occurred. CONCLUSION: Adolescents requiring emergency care for street drug intoxication had co-ingested alcohol or taken multiple drugs less often than young adults. Cannabis was the drug most often used by adolescents, who presented more often with diminished consciousness but less often with anxiety. We detected no differences related to event severity.

OBJETIVO: Investigar si existen diferencias en las drogas, sintomatología y gravedad entre adolescentes y jóvenes atendidos por intoxicación por drogas en servicios de urgencias hospitalarios (SUH). METODO: Entre los pacientes consecutivos atendidos por consumo de drogas en los 11 SUH de la REDURHE (Red de estudio de Drogas en Urgencias Hospitalarios en España), se seleccionaron los adolescentes (edad = 12-17 años) y los jóvenes (edad = 18-30 años). Se compararon las características sociodemográficas, clínicas y la gravedad (evento adverso combinado ­EAC­: parada cardiorrespiratoria, intubación endotraqueal, ingreso en cuidados intensivos o muerte intrahospitalaria) en adolescentes y jóvenes, ajustadas por sexo, coingesta de etanol y drogas involucradas. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 2.181 pacientes (adolescentes = 249, 11,4%; jóvenes = 1.932, 88,6%). En adolescentes, la coingesta de etanol y múltiples drogas fue menos frecuente. Hubo significativamente más asistencias por cannabis (81,1% vs 49,0%) y benzodiacepinas (13,3% vs 5,5%) y menos por cocaína (10,8% vs 45,1%), anfetamínicos (17,3% vs 32,3%), ketamina (0,4% vs 6,0%) y gamma-hidroxibutirato (0,4% vs 4,0%). Los adolescentes presentaron más disminución de consciencia (23,0% vs 16,9%) y menos ansiedad (15,9% vs 26,3%), palpitaciones (11,0% vs 19,5%) y dolor torácico (2,8% vs 9,2%). Estas asociaciones se mantuvieron al analizar el subgrupo de intoxicados por cannabis. En el modelo ajustado, los adolescentes presentan más disminución de consciencia con (OR = 1,851, IC 95%: 1,204-2,844) y menos ansiedad (OR = 0,529, IC 95%: 0,347-0,807). Se observó EAC en 46 pacientes (2,0%; 0,8% vs 2,3%, p = 0,129). La OR ajustada en adolescentes para EAC fue 0,568 (IC 95%: 0,131-2,468), y para intubación 0,494 (IC 95%: 0,063-3,892) y para ingreso en intensivos 0,780 (IC 95%: 0,175-3,475). No hubo fallecimientos. CONCLUSIONES: Los adolescentes intoxicados por drogas atendidos en SUH presentan con menor frecuencia coingesta de etanol o múltiples drogas. La droga más frecuentemente implicada es el cannabis, y presentan más disminución de consciencia y menos ansiedad. No detectamos diferencias en la gravedad entre adolescentes y jóvenes.

Características diferenciales en las manifestaciones clínicas y la gravedad de las intoxicaciones por drogas de abuso en adolescentes atendidos en servicios de urgencias en comparación con adultos jóvenes / Differences in clinical signs and severity of intoxication due to street drugs in adolescents and young adults treated in emergency departments

Objetivo. Investigar si existen diferencias en las drogas, sintomatología y gravedad entre adolescentes y jóvenes atendidos por intoxicación por drogas en servicios de urgencias hospitalarios (SUH).Método. Entre los pacientes consecutivos atendidos por consumo de drogas en los 11 SUH de la REDURHE (Red de estudio de Drogas en Urgencias Hospitalarios en España), se seleccionaron los adolescentes (edad = 12-17 años) y los jóvenes (edad = 18-30 años). Se compararon las características sociodemográficas, clínicas y la gravedad (evento adverso combinado –EAC–: parada cardiorrespiratoria, intubación endotraqueal, ingreso en cuidados intensivos o muerte intrahospitalaria) en adolescentes y jóvenes, ajustadas por sexo, coingesta de etanol y drogas involucradas.Resultados. Se incluyeron 2.181 pacientes (adolescentes = 249, 11,4%; jóvenes = 1.932, 88,6%). En adolescentes, la coingesta de etanol y múltiples drogas fue menos frecuente. Hubo significativamente más asistencias por cannabis (81,1% vs 49,0%) y benzodiacepinas (13,3% vs 5,5%) y menos por cocaína (10,8% vs 45,1%), anfetamínicos (17,3% vs 32,3%), ketamina (0,4% vs 6,0%) y gamma-hidroxibutirato (0,4% vs 4,0%). Los adolescentes presentaron más disminución de consciencia (23,0% vs 16,9%) y menos ansiedad (15,9% vs 26,3%), palpitaciones (11,0% vs 19,5%) y dolor torácico (2,8% vs 9,2%). Estas asociaciones se mantuvieron al analizar el subgrupo de intoxicados por cannabis. En el modelo ajustado, los adolescentes presentan más disminución de consciencia con (OR = 1,851, IC 95%: 1,204-2,844) y menos ansiedad (OR = 0,529, IC 95%: 0,347-0,807). Se observó EAC en 46 pacientes (2,0%; 0,8% vs 2,3%, p = 0,129). La OR ajustada en adolescentes para EAC fue 0,568 (IC 95%: 0,131-2,468), y para intubación 0,494 (IC 95%: 0,063-3,892) y para ingreso en intensivos 0,780 (IC 95%: 0,175-3,475). No hubo fallecimientos. (AU)

Objective. To determine whether symptoms and levels of severity of intoxication from street drugs differ between adolescents and young adults who come to hospital emergency departments for treatment.Methods. We studied a consecutive cohort of adolescents (aged 12-17 years) and young adults (aged 18-30 years) who were treated in 11 hospital emergency departments belonging to the Drug Abuse Network of Spanish Hospital Emergency Departments (REDURHE). Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics and level of severity were recorded for comparison between between adolescents and young adults, adjusted for sex, alcohol co-ingestion, and type of drug used. An intoxication was recorded as severe if at least 1 of the following indicators was present: cardiac arrest, tracheal intubation, intensive care unit admission, and in-hospital death.Results. We included a total of 2181 patients: 249 adolescents (11.4%) and 1932 young adults (88.6%). Alcohol coingestion and use of multiple drugs were less common in adolescents, who had significantly more events related to cannabis (in 81.1% vs 49.0% of young adults) and benzodiazepines (13.3% vs 5.5%). The adolescents had significantly fewer intoxications from the use of cocaine (10.8% vs 45.1%), amphetamines (17.3% vs 32.3%), ketamine (0.4% vs 6.0%) and gamma-hydroxybutyrate (0.4% vs 4.0%). A higher proportion of adolescents tan young adults presented with diminished consciousness (23.0% vs 16.9%), but fewer manifested anxiety (15.9% vs 26.3%), palpitations (11.0% vs 19.5%), or chest pain (2.8% vs 9.2%). (AU)

Manifestaciones clínicas y eventos adversos graves tras consumo de cannabis: efecto de la edad y análisis diferenciado en función del sexo y la coingesta de etanol / Clinical manifestations and serious adverse effects after cannabis use: role of age according to sex and coingestion of alcohol

Objetivo. Investigar si existen diferencias en las manifestaciones clínicas por consumo de cannabis según la edad, y si estas se modifican en función del sexo o el consumo de etanol. Método. Estudio observacional descriptivo de pacientes atendidos en 11 servicios de urgencias con consumo de can- nabis como motivo de consulta. Se recogieron 11 manifestaciones clínicas y se analizó su frecuencia relativa en fun- ción de la edad mediante curvas spline cúbicas restringidas. Se analizó si existía interacción en el comportamiento etario de cada uno de los síntomas en función del sexo y del consumo de etanol. Resultados. Se analizaron 949 pacientes, edad media 29 años, 74% varones y 39% con coingesta de etanol. Se iden- tificaron tres patrones de síntomas según la edad: estable (vómitos, cefalea, convulsiones, hipotensión), incrementada en edades medias (agresividad-agitación, ansiedad, psicosis, palpitaciones, alucinaciones) y con aumento progresivo con la edad (dolor torácico e hipertensión). En la relación síntoma-edad, la frecuencia de palpitaciones, vómitos y ce- falea tuvo un comportamiento significativamente diferente según el sexo, más constante en hombres y con un incre- mento marcado en edades medias en mujeres. La coingesta de etanol se asoció con más agitación-agresividad (34,0%/23,4%, p < 0,001) y menos palpitaciones (9,8%/15,6%, p = 0,01), ansiedad (20,7%/27,8%, p = 0,01), psico- sis (10,3%/16,6%, p = 0,007) y dolor torácico (3,8%/9,5%, p = 0,001). En cuanto a la relación síntoma-edad, el eta- nol solo modificó significativamente la frecuencia de vómitos y de psicosis. Conclusión. La edad condiciona efectos clínicos diferenciales en algunas manifestaciones agudas de la intoxicación por cannabis que precisa asistencia hospitalaria, y el sexo y el consumo simultáneo de alcohol modifican esta relación entre edad y frecuencia de algunos síntomas. (AU)

Objectives. To study whether there are age-related differences in the clinical effects of cannabis poisoning and whether any age differences found are also related to sex or coingestion of alcohol. Methods. Descriptive observational study of patients treated in 11 emergency departments for symptoms related to cannabis use. We collected data on 11 clinical manifestations and used a restricted cubic spline model to analyze their relative frequency according to age. We also looked for any interactions between the findings and patient sex or alcohol coingestion. Results. A total of 949 patients were studied. The mean age was 29 years, 74% were males, and 39% had also consumed alcohol. We identified 3 symptom patterns related to age. One set of symptoms (vomiting, headache, convulsions, and hypotension) remained stable across all ages. Manifestations that increased in the middle of the age range studied were agitation and aggressivity, psychosis, palpitations and hallucinations. Chest pain and hypertension increased in older-aged patients. The frequencies of palpitations, vomiting, and headache differed according to sex. These manifestations held constant in males but were markedly higher in young-adult females. Coingestion of alcohol was associated with agitation and aggressivity (in 34.0% vs 23.4%, P < .001), fewer reports of palpitations (in 9.8% vs 15.6%, P = .01), less anxiety (in 20.7% vs 27.8%, P = .01), less psychosis (in 10.3% vs 16.6%, P = .007), and less chest pain (in 3.8% vs 9.5%, P = .001). The only significant interaction between age and alcohol coingestion occurred with respect to vomiting and psychosis. Conclusions. There are age-related differences in the acute clinical manifestations of cannabis poisoning requiring emergency hospital care. Sex and coingestion of alcohol modify the relationship between age and frequency of some manifestations. (AU)

Clinical manifestations and serious adverse effects after cannabis use: role of age according to sex and coingestion of alcohol. / Manifestaciones clínicas y eventos adversos graves tras consumo de cannabis: efecto de la edad y análisis diferenciado en función del sexo y la coingesta de etanol.

OBJECTIVES: To study whether there are age-related differences in the clinical effects of cannabis poisoning and whether any age differences found are also related to sex or coingestion of alcohol. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Descriptive observational study of patients treated in 11 emergency departments for symptoms related to cannabis use. We collected data on 11 clinical manifestations and used a restricted cubic spline model to analyze their relative frequency according to age. We also looked for any interactions between the findings and patient sex or alcohol coingestion. RESULTS: A total of 949 patients were studied. The mean age was 29 years, 74% were males, and 39% had also consumed alcohol. We identified 3 symptom patterns related to age. One set of symptoms (vomiting, headache, convulsions, and hypotension) remained stable across all ages. Manifestations that increased in the middle of the age range studied were agitation and aggressivity, psychosis, palpitations and hallucinations. Chest pain and hypertension increased in older-aged patients. The frequencies of palpitations, vomiting, and headache differed according to sex. These manifestations held constant in males but were markedly higher in young-adult females. Coingestion of alcohol was associated with agitation and aggressivity (in 34.0% vs 23.4%, P .001), fewer reports of palpitations (in 9.8% vs 15.6%, P = .01), less anxiety (in 20.7% vs 27.8%, P = .01), less psychosis (in 10.3% vs 16.6%, P = .007), and less chest pain (in 3.8% vs 9.5%, P = .001). The only significant interaction between age and alcohol coingestion occurred with respect to vomiting and psychosis. CONCLUSION: There are age-related differences in the acute clinical manifestations of cannabis poisoning requiring emergency hospital care. Sex and coingestion of alcohol modify the relationship between age and frequency of some manifestations.

OBJETIVO: Investigar si existen diferencias en las manifestaciones clínicas por consumo de cannabis según la edad, y si estas se modifican en función del sexo o el consumo de etanol. METODO: Estudio observacional descriptivo de pacientes atendidos en 11 servicios de urgencias con consumo de cannabis como motivo de consulta. Se recogieron 11 manifestaciones clínicas y se analizó su frecuencia relativa en función de la edad mediante curvas spline cúbicas restringidas. Se analizó si existía interacción en el comportamiento etario de cada uno de los síntomas en función del sexo y del consumo de etanol. RESULTADOS: Se analizaron 949 pacientes, edad media 29 años, 74% varones y 39% con coingesta de etanol. Se identificaron tres patrones de síntomas según la edad: estable (vómitos, cefalea, convulsiones, hipotensión), incrementada en edades medias (agresividad-agitación, ansiedad, psicosis, palpitaciones, alucinaciones) y con aumento progresivo con la edad (dolor torácico e hipertensión). En la relación síntoma-edad, la frecuencia de palpitaciones, vómitos y cefalea tuvo un comportamiento significativamente diferente según el sexo, más constante en hombres y con un incremento marcado en edades medias en mujeres. La coingesta de etanol se asoció con más agitación-agresividad (34,0%/23,4%, p 0,001) y menos palpitaciones (9,8%/15,6%, p = 0,01), ansiedad (20,7%/27,8%, p = 0,01), psicosis (10,3%/16,6%, p = 0,007) y dolor torácico (3,8%/9,5%, p = 0,001). En cuanto a la relación síntoma-edad, el etanol solo modificó significativamente la frecuencia de vómitos y de psicosis. CONCLUSIONES: La edad condiciona efectos clínicos diferenciales en algunas manifestaciones agudas de la intoxicación por cannabis que precisa asistencia hospitalaria, y el sexo y el consumo simultáneo de alcohol modifican esta relación entre edad y frecuencia de algunos síntomas.

Perfil sociodemográfico e de dependência química dos usuários de um Centro de Atenção Psicossocial especializado / Sociodemographic and chemical-dependency profile of users at a specialized Psychosocial Care Center / Perfil sociodemográfico y de dependencia química de los usuarios de un Centro de Atención Psicosocial especializado

OBJETIVO: identificar o perfil sociodemográfico e de dependência química dos usuários de um Centro de Atenção Psicossocial Álcool e Outras Drogas. MÉTODO: estudo transversal e retrospectivo realizado por meio de consulta a 360 prontuários. RESULTADOS: a maioria dos usuários era do sexo masculino (91,1%; n = 328), analfabeta/Ensino Fundamental (70,8%; n = 255), vivia sem companheira(o) (76,9%; n = 277) e morava na zona urbana (63,3%; n = 228). O uso simultâneo de múltiplas drogas foi encontrado em 43,5% (n = 157) e a dependência exclusiva de álcool em 40,4% (n = 146). CONCLUSÃO: evidenciou-se predomínio de homens solteiros com baixa escolaridade e em dependência de múltiplas drogas e/ou de álcool. Esse conhecimento é relevante para propostas de estratégias baseadas em evidências.

OBJECTIVE: to identify the sociodemographic and chemical-dependency profile of users at a Psychosocial Care Center - Alcohol and Other Drugs. METHOD: a retrospective and cross-sectional study carried out by referring to 360 medical records. RESULTS: the majority of users were males (91.1%, n = 328), illiterate/Elementary School (70.8%, n = 255), without a partner (76.9%, n = 277), and lived in urban areas (63.3%, n = 228). Simultaneous use of multiple drugs was found in 43.5% (n = 157) and exclusive alcohol dependency in 40.4% (n = 146). CONCLUSION: the predominance of single men with low schooling and dependency on multiple drugs and/or alcohol was found. This knowledge is relevant to evidence-based strategy proposals.

OBJETIVO: identificar el perfil sociodemográfico y de dependencia química de los usuarios de un centro de atención psicosocial alcohol y otras drogas. MÉTODO: estudio retrospectivo y transversal realizado por medio de consulta a 360 prontuarios. RESULTADOS: la mayoría de los usuarios eran del sexo masculino (91,1%, n = 328), analfabeto/enseñanza fundamental (70,8%, n = 255), vivía sin compañera (76,9%; n = 277) y vivía en la zona urbana (63,3%, n = 228). El uso simultáneo de múltiples drogas se encontró en el 43,5% (n = 157) y la dependencia exclusiva de alcohol en el 40,4% (n = 146). CONCLUSIÓN: se evidenció predominio de hombres solteros con baja escolaridad y en dependencia de múltiples drogas y/o de alcohol. Este conocimiento es relevante para propuestas de estrategias basadas en evidencias.

Purity of street-level cocaine across Denmark from 2006 to 2019: Analysis of seized cocaine.

Cocaine-related emergency department admissions are increasing, and cocaine seizures are at an all-time high in Europe. Our aim was to investigate the trends in purity and adulterants over time in cocaine available to cocaine users at street level in Denmark. We used a representative sample of cocaine seized at street level and analyzed by the national departments of forensic medicine between 2006 and 2019 (n = 1460). Latent profile analysis was used to classify the samples based on cocaine, levamisole, and phenacetin content. Low purity cocaine comprised most of the cocaine seizures in early years, but its share began to decline in 2013, and from 2016 to 2019, the high purity profile was dominant. While the total number of samples containing adulterants decreased, levamisole remained a common and dangerous adulterant. The findings underline the need to inform the public, medical doctors, and service providers for people with drug use disorders about the higher potency of street cocaine.

Detección de pacientes con infección desconocida por VIH en los servicios de urgencias españoles: actitud actual y predisposición y dificultades percibidas para implementar acciones de mejora / Screening for undiagnosed human immunodeficiency virus infection in Spanish emergency departments: current attitudes, inclination, and perception of obstacles related to the implementation of measures to improve detection

Objetivo: Conocer la actitud actual de los servicios de urgencias hospitalarios (SUH) españoles para detectar pacientes con infección por VIH no conocida, así como su predisposición y las potenciales dificultades para implantar medidas que mejoren esta detección. Método: Encuesta estructurada a los responsables de todos los SUH públicos españoles que atienden adultos 24 horas/día. Se preguntó sobre rutinas asistenciales en urgencias para cribaje de infección oculta por VIH, y sobre la predisposición y dificultades percibidas para implementar medidas de mejora. Los resultados se comparan según tamaño del hospital (grande vs medio-pequeño: $ 500 vs < 500 camas) y afluencia en urgencias (alta vs media-baja: $ 200 vs < 200 pacientes/día) y se detallan por comunidad autónoma. Resultados: Respondieron 250 de los 282 SUH españoles (88,7%): 59 correspondían a hospitales grandes (23,6%) y 114 (45,6%) eran SUH de alta afluencia. El 65,2% casi nunca o infrecuentemente solicita serología VIH en sospecha de infección oculta (si lo hace, el 17,6% recibe el resultado de forma urgente) y un 47,8% cree que urgencias no debe participar en programas de detección de infección oculta por VIH (> 75% de SUH en Asturias, Castilla y León, Extremadura y Navarra). Tres de las nueve medidas encuestadas encaminadas a mejorar la detección del VIH en urgencias fueron consideradas de implementación difícil: participación de enfermería en detectar pacientes en riesgo durante el triaje (61% de SUH consideraron su dificultad bastante alta o muy alta; > 75% en Madrid, Comunidad Valenciana, Murcia, Aragón y Navarra) y la aceptación de cribado universal por parte de gerencia/dirección del centro (59%; > 75% en Madrid, Aragón y Navarra) y urgenciólogos (57%; > 75% en Madrid, Navarra, País Vasco y Extremadura); en las seis medidas restantes < 35% de SUH consideraron su implementación difícil. (AU)

Objectives: To describe current attitudes toward screening for undiagnosed human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in Spanish hospital emergency departments (EDs). To describe staff willingness to implement screening protocols and the obstacles they foresee. Material and methods: Structured survey of all chiefs of hospital EDs seeing adults 24 hours per day within the Spanish national health system. The ED chiefs were asked about their departments' routine HIV screening practices, their willingness to screen, and the perceived obstacles to implementing measures to improve screening. Findings were compared according to hospital size (large hospitals, 500 beds; small-medium hospitals, 500 beds), ED caseload (high, 200 patients/d; low, 200 patients/d), and Spanish autonomous community. Results: The chiefs of 250 of the 282 EDs (88.7%) responded. Fifty-nine (23.6%) were in large hospitals, and 114 (45.6%) had high caseloads. HIV serology for suspected HIV infection is never or hardly ever ordered in 65.2% of the EDs. If serology is ordered, 17.6% request rapid processing. Nearly half (47.8%) thought that EDs should not screen for undiagnosed HIV infection; in Asturias, Castile and Leon, Extremadura, and Navarre over 75% of respondents expressed that opinion. Three of the 9 proposed measures to improve HIV screening in EDs were considered quite difficult or very difficult to implement. One measure that was considered problematic was nurse identification of highrisk patients during triage (for 61% of respondents overall and > 75% in the communities of Madrid and Valencia, Murcia, Aragon, and Navarre). A second foreseen difficulty was gaining hospital directors' and administrators' acceptance of universal HIV screening (for 59% overall and > 75% in Madrid, Aragon, and Navarre). (AU)

Modelos Ecológicos del Desarrollo aplicados al consumo de drogas ilícitas: una revisión sistemática / Ecological Models of Development applied to the consumption of illicit drugs: a systematic review

Resumen El consumo de drogas ilícitas constituye un asunto de relevancia social y de salud pública. Los modelos ecológicos enriquecen la explicación de las variaciones en el consumo de sustancias ilícitas, al facilitar la inclusión de los factores individuales y del contexto en el que las personas se desenvuelven. Esta revisión sistemática tiene como objetivo identificar los conceptos sobre modelos ecológicos utilizados en la investigación sobre el consumo de drogas, cuáles son los niveles de determinación previstos y cuáles factores asociados al consumo de drogas de índole personal, familiary del contexto social amplio. A partir de 22 manuscritos incluidos en la fase final de la revisión se identificó una decena de denominaciones para los modelos ecológicos, así como niveles de determinación personal, familiar y del contexto social. Se perfilan los modelos ecológicos como estructuras conceptuales flexibles, dinámicas y con posibilidades de sustentar políticas públicas integrales con mejores resultados.

Abstract The consumption of illicit drugs is a matter of social relevance and public health. Ecological models enrich the explanation of variations in the consumption of illicit substances, by facilitating the inclusion of individual factors and the context in which people develop. This rapid review aims to identify the concepts of ecological models used in research on drug use, what are the levels of determination expected and what factors associated with the consumption of drugs of a personal, family and social nature. A dozen denominations were identified for the ecological models, from of 22 manuscripts included in the final phase of the review, as well as levels of personal, family and social context determination. Ecological models are outlined as flexible, dynamic conceptual structures with the potential to sustain comprehensive public policies with better results.

Screening for undiagnosed human immunodeficiency virus infection in Spanish emergency departments: current attitudes, inclination, and perception of obstacles related to the implementation of measures to improve detection. / Detección de pacientes con infección desconocida por VIH en los servicios de urgencias españoles: actitud actual y predisposición y dificultades percibidas para implementar acciones de mejora.

OBJECTIVES: To describe current attitudes toward screening for undiagnosed human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in Spanish hospital emergency departments (EDs). To describe staff willingness to implement screening protocols and the obstacles they foresee. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Structured survey of all chiefs of hospital EDs seeing adults 24 hours per day within the Spanish national health system. The ED chiefs were asked about their departments' routine HIV screening practices, their willingness to screen, and the perceived obstacles to implementing measures to improve screening. Findings were compared according to hospital size (large hospitals, 500 beds; small-medium hospitals, 500 beds), ED caseload (high, 200 patients/d; low, 200 patients/d), and Spanish autonomous community. RESULTS: The chiefs of 250 of the 282 EDs (88.7%) responded. Fifty-nine (23.6%) were in large hospitals, and 114 (45.6%) had high caseloads. HIV serology for suspected HIV infection is never or hardly ever ordered in 65.2% of the EDs. If serology is ordered, 17.6% request rapid processing. Nearly half (47.8%) thought that EDs should not screen for undiagnosed HIV infection; in Asturias, Castile and Leon, Extremadura, and Navarre over 75% of respondents expressed that opinion. Three of the 9 proposed measures to improve HIV screening in EDs were considered quite difficult or very difficult to implement. One measure that was considered problematic was nurse identification of highrisk patients during triage (for 61% of respondents overall and > 75% in the communities of Madrid and Valencia, Murcia, Aragon, and Navarre). A second foreseen difficulty was gaining hospital directors' and administrators' acceptance of universal HIV screening (for 59% overall and > 75% in Madrid, Aragon, and Navarre). The third was gaining emergency physicians' acceptance of screening (57% overall and > 75% in Madrid, Navarre, Basque Country, and Extremadura). In the remaining autonomous communities, fewer than 35% of the ED chiefs foresaw difficulties. ED chiefs in large hospitals and with high caseloads accepted HIV screening more readily, both in terms of current practice and the implementation of improved screening protocols. CONCLUSION: There is considerable room for improvement in hospital ED screening for undiagnosed HIV infection. Some measures aimed at better screening would be more acceptable to the surveyed EDs, but there are marked differences in attitudes between autonomous communities.

OBJETIVO: Conocer la actitud actual de los servicios de urgencias hospitalarios (SUH) españoles para detectar pacientes con infección por VIH no conocida, así como su predisposición y las potenciales dificultades para implantar medidas que mejoren esta detección. METODO: Encuesta estructurada a los responsables de todos los SUH públicos españoles que atienden adultos 24 horas/día. Se preguntó sobre rutinas asistenciales en urgencias para cribaje de infección oculta por VIH, y sobre la predisposición y dificultades percibidas para implementar medidas de mejora. Los resultados se comparan según tamaño del hospital (grande vs medio-pequeño: 500 vs 500 camas) y afluencia en urgencias (alta vs media-baja: 200 vs 200 pacientes/día) y se detallan por comunidad autónoma. RESULTADOS: Respondieron 250 de los 282 SUH españoles (88,7%): 59 correspondían a hospitales grandes (23,6%) y 114 (45,6%) eran SUH de alta afluencia. El 65,2% casi nunca o infrecuentemente solicita serología VIH en sospecha de infección oculta (si lo hace, el 17,6% recibe el resultado de forma urgente) y un 47,8% cree que urgencias no debe participar en programas de detección de infección oculta por VIH (> 75% de SUH en Asturias, Castilla y León, Extremadura y Navarra). Tres de las nueve medidas encuestadas encaminadas a mejorar la detección del VIH en urgencias fueron consideradas de implementación difícil: participación de enfermería en detectar pacientes en riesgo durante el triaje (61% de SUH consideraron su dificultad bastante alta o muy alta; > 75% en Madrid, Comunidad Valenciana, Murcia, Aragón y Navarra) y la aceptación de cribado universal por parte de gerencia/dirección del centro (59%; > 75% en Madrid, Aragón y Navarra) y urgenciólogos (57%; > 75% en Madrid, Navarra, País Vasco y Extremadura); en las seis medidas restantes 35% de SUH consideraron su implementación difícil. Se constata una mayor implicación de hospitales grandes y SUH con alta afluencia en la detección de infección oculta por VIH, tanto actual como en la implementación de medidas de mejora. CONCLUSIONES: Existe un margen importante de mejora en los SUH en cuanto a la detección de la infección oculta por VIH. La implementación de ciertas medidas conseguiría una mejor aceptación de las estrategias de detección precoz por los colectivos implicados, aunque con diferencias notables entre comunidades autónomas.

Combining respondent-driven sampling with a community-based participatory action study of people who smoke drugs in two cities in British Columbia, Canada.

BACKGROUND: The smoking of illicit drugs presents a serious social and economic burden in Canada. People who smoke drugs (PWSD) are at increased risk of contracting multiple infections through risky drug practices. Peer-led harm reduction activities, and the resulting social networks that form around them, can potentially minimize the dangers associated with the smoking illicit drugs. GOAL: The goals of this study were to pilot test the combined approaches of respondent driven sampling with community based participatory action research in these settings and compare the attributes and social networks of PWSD in two British Columbia cities with different harm reduction programs. METHODS: Using community-based participatory action research (CBPAR) and respondent-driven sampling (RDS), individuals with lived drug experiences were employed from communities in Abbotsford and Vancouver as peer researchers to interview ten contacts from their social networks. Contacts completed a questionnaire about their harm reduction behaviours and interactions. RESULTS: We found that PWSD residing in Abbotsford were more likely to report engaging in harm-promoting behaviours, such as sharing, reusing, or borrowing crack pipes. However, PWSD in the Downtown East side Community of Vancouver were more likely to report engaging in harm-reducing activities, such as being trained in naloxone use and CPR. We found no differences in network sizes between the two communities, despite the population differences and harm reduction programs CONCLUSION: The high participation rates and interactions between researchers, and peer researchers enriched the study implementation and successfully informed our results. The fact that there were no differences in network size suggests that people have similar support in Vancouver as in Abbotsford, and that drug use practices differ mainly due to availability of harm reduction programming and resources.

Nutrizes usuárias de drogas e o desfecho da amamentação: estudo de coorte / Nursing mothers that use drugs and the breastfeeding outcome: a cohort study / Nutrices consumidoras de drogas y resultado de la lactancia materna: un estudio de cohorte

OBJETIVO: conhecer o desfecho do aleitamento materno de mães usuárias de drogas lícitas e ilícitas, verificar a gravidade da dependência e relacionar com o tempo de aleitamento. MÉTODO: estudo de coorte com 108 mulheres. Utilizou-se o Alcohol Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test para estabelecer a dependência a drogas. A manutenção da amamentação foi avaliada no 7°, 15° e 30° dias de nascimento. Para avaliar a continuidade do aleitamento materno, utilizou-se análise de sobrevivência de Kaplan-Meier e de Cox. RESULTADOS: a maconha teve escore de uso abusivo para 42,6% das mães e a cocaína para 37%. A média de aleitamento foi de 28,8 dias. O uso abusivo de tabaco e álcool representou, respectivamente, 6,6 e 11 vezes mais risco de descontinuar a amamentação. Não foi possível estabelecer a mesma relação para maconha e cocaína. CONCLUSÃO: as mães usuárias de drogas praticaram o aleitamento exclusivo, mesmo aquelas que consomem maconha e cocaína de modo abusivo. O consumo de drogas, mesmo lícitas, representa um risco para o desmame precoce.

OBJECTIVE: to identify the breastfeeding outcome for mothers that use licit and illicit drugs, to verify the severity of their dependence and to relate this to the breastfeeding duration. METHOD: cohort study with 108 women. The Alcohol Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST) was used to establish drug dependence. Breastfeeding maintenance was assessed on the 7th, 15th and 30th days of life. To assess the breastfeeding continuity, Kaplan-Meier and Cox survival analysis was used. RESULTS: 42.6% of the mothers presented an score indicative of abuse for marijuana and 37.0% for cocaine. The mean length of breastfeeding was 28.8 days. The abuse of tobacco and alcohol represented, respectively, 6.6 and 11.0 times more risk of discontinuing the breastfeeding. It was not possible to establish this relationship in relation to marijuana and cocaine. CONCLUSION: the mothers that used drugs practiced exclusive breastfeeding, even those that used marijuana and cocaine in an abusive way. Drug use, even if legal, represents a risk for early weaning.

OBJETIVO: conocer el resultado de la lactancia materna para las madres que consumen drogas lícitas e ilícitas, verificar la gravedad de la dependencia y relacionarla con la duración de la lactancia materna. MÉTODOS: estudio de cohorte con 108 mujeres. Se utilizó el Alcohol Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test para establecer la adicción a las drogas. El mantenimiento de la lactancia materna se evaluó a los 7, 15 y 30 días de vida. Para evaluar la continuidad de la lactancia materna se utilizó el análisis de supervivencia de Kaplan-Meier y Cox. RESULTADOS: la marihuana tuvo una puntuación de uso abusivo para el 42,6% de las madres y la cocaína el 37%. El promedio de lactancia fue de 28,8 días. El consumo abusivo de tabaco y alcohol representaba, respectivamente, 6,6 y 11 veces más riesgo de interrumpir la lactancia materna. No fue posible establecer la misma relación para la marihuana y la cocaína. CONCLUSIÓN: las madres que consumen drogas han practicado la lactancia materna exclusiva, incluso las que abusan de la marihuana y la cocaína. El consumo de drogas, incluso las lícitas, representa un riesgo para el destete precoz.

Evaluación de la eficacia de WhatsApp en un programa grupal de reducción de daños asociados al consumo inyectado de drogas / Evaluation of the efficacy of WhatsApp through a harm reduction intervention group for injecting drug users

El presente estudio analiza el uso de una aplicación de mensajeríainstantánea (WhatsApp®) como canal de acceso a personas que seinyectan drogas. Se diseñó un estudio observacional longitudinalprospectivo de ocho semanas y tres observaciones en cinco centrosde adicciones en Cataluña. Participaron 105 personas que consumían drogas por vía parenteral, distribuidas en cinco grupos de intervención grupal. Se compararon los resultados de la escala RiskAssessment Battery (RAB) (después de ser traducida al español y analizada su consistencia interna) en las tres fases de análisis pre test,post intervención y un mes después de la intervención. Los resultadosindican una disminución significativa de las puntuaciones RAB tras laintervención a través de WhatsApp®. Se concluye que la intervencióngrupal a través de WhatsApp presenta grandes potencialidades pararealizar intervenciones en reducción de daños y reducir el riesgo decontagio del VIH. (AU)

This study aims to analyse the use of an instant messaging app(WhatsApp®) as a means of communication for reaching peoplewho inject drugs. An eight-week prospective longitudinal and observational study with three observations was designed for five addictioncentres in Catalonia. The participants were 105 people who injectdrugs, distributed in five intervention groups. The results of the RiskAssessment Battery (RAB) were compared in the three levels of analysis pre-test, post intervention and one month after the intervention.The main results indicate a significative reduction in RAB scores afterthe intervention. The main conclusion was that the WhatsApp® intervention has great potential for developing harm reduction interventions and to reduce the HIV contagion risk. (AU)