Comparing primary heroin and primary amphetamine users’ knowledge of withdrawal and treatment options in inner metropolitan Brisbane, Australia

Abstract

The present study compared knowledge of withdrawal and treatment services among twelve primary heroin injectors (PHIs) and fourteen primary amphetamine injectors (PAIs). Assessment of knowledge about withdrawal and treatment was made using the Withdrawal Knowledge Questionnaire (WKQ). Results showed that, on average, knowledge about withdrawal differed depending on the drug used. Specifically, regular amphetamine users knew less about withdrawal from amphetamine, than regular heroin users knew about withdrawal from heroin. In addition, amphetamine users appeared to underestimate the likely length of amphetamine withdrawal. There was no difference between regular amphetamine and regular heroin users’ knowledge of available treatment services, such that both groups knew where to seek assistance for detoxification and rehabilitation. However, both user groups shared some important misconceptions about withdrawal. This suggests a clear need for improved dissemination of educational resources, emphasizing the length and severity of amphetamine withdrawal and the risks associated with excessive self-medication of withdrawal symptoms.