NCJ Number
192890
Journal
Substance Use & Misuse Volume: 36 Issue: 9 & 10 Dated: July/August 2001 Pages: 1213-1231
Date Published
2001
Length
19 pages
Annotation
This article reports on the evaluations of programs for the treatment of benzodiazepine dependency.
Abstract
Programs for the treatment of benzodiazepine dependency differ in a number of ways. Their outcome goals, for example, vary. In some of the programs, the reduction or the elimination of benzodiazepine use is the main objective. In others, a reduction in anxiety and depression among patients is regarded as much more important than decreasing benzodiazepine use. These differences in goals make comparative evaluations difficult; however, there are many similarities among current benzodiazepine dependency treatment programs. Dosage is usually tapered gradually, and efforts are made to manage the anxiety associated with the period of withdrawal. Tapering strategies differ from program to program. Further, the types of clients recruited to the programs are often dissimilar; however, it is still possible and valuable to conduct comparative evaluations of the numerous programs. The aims of published evaluations differ. Most evaluations focus on outcome data. Only a few studies have analyzed the dynamic treatment process. To achieve more reliable and valid evaluations, it is necessary to obtain data that describe the process and the results from both the clients' and therapists' perspective. Various research strategies must be combined. Variables most often used in the evaluation of programs aimed at decreasing or eliminating benzodiazepine are reduction in the client's benzodiazepine drug use; reduction in the client's anxiety and depression symptoms; changes in cognitive system of the client; changes in social activities by the client; changes in occupational activities by the client; the client's overall assessment of the therapy; the therapist's overall assessment of the therapy; and cost considerations. 46 references