12‐step programs for reducing illicit drug use

Martin Bøg,Maja Karrman Fredrikksson,Lars Brännström,Trine Filges,Anne‐Marie Klint Jørgensen

doi:10.4073/csr.2017.2

Abstract

Illicit drug abuse has serious and far-reaching implications for the abuser, their family members, friends, and society as a whole. Preferred intervention programs are those that effectively reduce illicit drug use and its negative consequences, and are cost-effective as well. Current evidence shows that overall, 12-step programs are just as effective as alternative, psychosocial interventions. The costs of programs are, therefore, an important consideration. However, the strength of the studies is weak and further evidence regarding the effectiveness of 12-step programs is needed.

Highlights

1.1 DESCRIPTION OF THE CONDITIONIllicit drug production and use1 remains a severe problem worldwide (United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, UNODC, 2010)
The results of this review suggest that 12-step interventions to support illicit drug users are as effective as alternative psychosocial interventions in reducing drug use
Given the preponderance with which self-help 12-step interventions are delivered in practice, further evidence regarding the effectiveness of this type of intervention is needed

Summary

Introduction

Illicit drug production and use remains a severe problem worldwide (United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, UNODC, 2010). The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) estimates that between 155 and 250 million people (3.5 to 5.7 percent of the population aged 15-64) used illicit substances at least once in 2008 (UNODC, 2010). Cannabis is the most commonly used illicit substance (with an estimated 129 – 190 million users worldwide), followed by amphetaminegroup substances, cocaine and opiates. UNODC considers some types of drug use to be more problematic than others, and defines problem drug use as that which involves the injection of drugs or the long-duration/regular use of opioids, cocaine and/or amphetamines. For 2008, UNODC estimates that between 16 and 38 million people worldwide are problematic drug users (UNODC, 2010)

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Discussion

Conclusion