Relapse into opiate and crack cocaine misuse: a scoping review

A mathematical model with nonlinear relapse: conditions for a forward-backward bifurcation

We constructed a Susceptible-Addicted-Reformed model and explored the dynamics of nonlinear relapse in the Reformed population. The transition from susceptible considered at-risk is modeled using a strictly decreasing general function, mimicking an influential factor that reduces the flow into the addicted class. The basic reproductive number is computed, which determines the local asymptotically stability of the addicted-free equilibrium. Conditions for a forward-backward bifurcation were established using the basic reproductive number and other threshold quantities. A stochastic version of the model is presented, and some numerical examples are shown. Results showed that the influence of the temporarily reformed individuals is highly sensitive to the initial addicted population.

A comparison of risk factors for relapse in opiate-related and stimulant-related substance use disorders: A cross-sectional multicenter study

INTRODUCTION

Recognizing the specific factors in relapse disorders related to each substance can help improve treatment methods and adopt more effective preventive strategies. This study aimed to compare the situational factors associated with relapse in opiate-related disorders with stimulant-related disorders (SRDs) of those referred to substance misuse treatment centers.

DESIGN

This study was a cross-section type.

METHODS

The study participants were 150 clients with SRDs and 150 with opiate-related disorders. Samples were selected using two stages random sampling method. Data were collected through a demographic questionnaire and the Inventory of Drug-Taking Situations (IDTS).

RESULTS

The mean score of IDTS in the two groups was significantly different (X̄₁  = 45.93 ± 11.12 vs. X̄₂  = 48.34 ± 15.07; t = 3.32, p < 0.01). The mean scores of 'unpleasant emotions,' 'physical discomfort,' 'conflict with others,' and 'social pressure to use and urge/temptations' subscales were significantly higher in the stimulant group than in the opiate group (p < 0.05). However, the mean of the testing' personal control' subscale was higher in the opiate group than in the stimulant group (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

This study reveals that despite some similarities, relapse-related situational factors in opiates and stimulants differ. Some situational factors, such as social pressure and coping with unpleasant emotions, play a more critical role in relapse to both stimulant and opiate groups.

Impairments in Executive Functioning in Patients with Comorbid Substance Use and Personality Disorders: A Systematic Review

The purpose of this systematic review was to examine the evidence for impaired executive functioning in patients diagnosed with a dual pathology of personality disorder (PD) and substance use disorder, and to identify whether differences exist in comparison to those with a single diagnosis. Methods: A systematic search was conducted to identify studies using measures of executive functioning in patients with PD-substance use disorder dual pathology. Sixteen studies were selected. Results: The results indicate that dual pathology patients with Cluster C personality disorder do not differ from controls, and that the presence of dual pathology does not influence the updating domain of executive functioning. The findings were inconclusive with regard to dual pathology patients with Cluster B personality disorders. Whilst the various studies consistently show that these patients show worse performance than the control groups, here are contradictory results with regard to whether Cluster B personality disorders add more alterations in executive functioning to those that already appear in substance use disorder. Conclusions: The results suggest the need for further research that more adequately controls variables such as time in treatment, medication, and sample size, whilst there is also a need to employ longitudinal designs that include more patients from Clusters A and C.