Stimulant maintenance

Stimulant maintenance is a pharmacotherapy approach used in the treatment of stimulant use disorders. This method involves the administration of a prescribed stimulant in a controlled medical setting. The goal of stimulant maintenance is to reduce or eliminate illicit stimulant use, decrease the associated harms, and improve the physical and psychological health of the stimulant-dependent individual.

Overview

Stimulant maintenance is a form of harm reduction strategy. It is based on the same principles as opioid maintenance therapy, which is a well-established treatment approach for opioid dependence. Stimulant maintenance involves the long-term prescribing of stimulants in a controlled medical environment to individuals who are dependent on illicit stimulants.

Efficacy

Research on the efficacy of stimulant maintenance is ongoing. Some studies have shown promising results, with participants showing a reduction in illicit stimulant use and improvements in health and social functioning. However, more research is needed to determine the optimal dosing strategies and to identify the individuals who are most likely to benefit from this treatment approach.

Risks and Challenges

Like all pharmacotherapies, stimulant maintenance carries potential risks. These include the risk of developing a physical dependence on the prescribed stimulant and the potential for misuse or diversion of the medication. There are also challenges related to ensuring adherence to the treatment regimen and monitoring for potential side effects.

See Also

• Harm reduction
• Pharmacotherapy
• Opioid maintenance therapy
• Stimulant

References

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