Article by M. A. Lee and J. A. Askew (2022) Treatment of Inhalant Use Disorder: A Review of the Evidence examines inhalant use disorder (IUD) is a significant public health concern, affecting an estimated 0.5%-2% of the general population. Inhalants, such as gasoline, glue, paint thinner, and aerosol propellants, are readily available and affordable, particularly appealing to young individuals struggling with mental health or substance use issues. Despite the absence of FDA-approved medications or specific psychosocial interventions for IUD, there is some evidence suggesting the potential efficacy of existing treatments for other substance use disorders, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and contingency management. This article provides a comprehensive review of the available evidence on the treatment of IUD, concluding that further research is needed but existing treatments can assist in managing symptoms and enhancing the quality of life for individuals with IUD.
A. Lee and J. A. Askew begin by detailing inhalants belonging to a class of volatile substances that, when inhaled, produce psychoactive effects. Their low cost and easy accessibility make them particularly attractive to young individuals, especially those grappling with mental health or substance use challenges. Inhalant use disorder (IUD) poses a significant public health problem, with an estimated prevalence ranging from 0.5% to 2% among the general population. IUD is characterized by persistent inhalant use despite adverse consequences, such as health issues, legal troubles, and social difficulties. Treatment of IUD is challenging due to the absence of FDA-approved medications or psychosocial interventions specifically designed for this disorder. However, there is some indication that existing treatments for other substance use disorders, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and contingency management, could potentially benefit individuals with IUD.
To gather comprehensive data, the authors employed various research methods, including a literature review, expert interviews, and surveys of individuals with IUD and their families. The literature review involved an examination of peer-reviewed journal articles, government reports, and other relevant sources. Expert interviews were conducted with professionals in the field of substance use disorder treatment, including clinicians and researchers. Additionally, surveys were administered to individuals with IUD and their families, providing firsthand insights into their experiences. The authors analyzed the data obtained from these different sources to identify the most effective treatments for IUD.
Several limitations should be considered when interpreting the study’s findings. Firstly, the quality of available data posed a limitation, as some of the studies included in the literature review were small or poorly designed. Secondly, the study lacked a randomized controlled trial design, preventing a definitive conclusion about whether the identified effective treatments were solely responsible for the observed improvements in participants’ symptoms.
Given the absence of FDA-approved medications or specific interventions for IUD, treatment options are limited. However, existing evidence suggests that certain treatments utilized for other substance use disorders may have potential benefits for IUD. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), a psychotherapy approach that targets cognitive and behavioral patterns, has demonstrated effectiveness in treating various substance use disorders, including alcohol use disorder and cannabis use disorder. Consequently, CBT is regarded as a promising treatment option for IUD. Contingency management, a behavioral therapy approach that employs rewards to reinforce desired behaviors, has shown efficacy in treating substance use disorders like alcohol use disorder and cocaine use disorder, and it is also considered a promising treatment for IUD. Other potential treatments for IUD include supportive therapy, family therapy, and mindfulness-based interventions.
Inhalant use disorder (IUD) is a significant public health problem, necessitating effective treatment approaches. Although no FDA-approved medications or psychosocial interventions specifically designed for IUD currently exist, existing treatments for other substance use disorders, such as cognitive-behavior.
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Reference:
Authors: Lee, M. A., & Askew, J. A. Year: 2022
Title: Treatment of Inhalant Use Disorder: A Review of the Evidence Journal: Addiction
Volume: 117
Issue: 3
Pages: 427-440
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/add.15406