Pharmacotherapy Treatment in Substance-Dependent Correctional Populations: A Review

Abstract

The number of drug or alcohol dependent inmates has increased dramatically in recent years. About half of all inmates meet DSM-IV criteria for dependence at the time of their arrest and require substance use treatment or detoxification. Few inmates receive treatment while in prison, increasing the likelihood that they will continue to use substances in prison and after release. While pharmacotherapy interventions have been shown to be effective with substance users in the community, few studies have investigated these treatments with a prison population. Further research is needed to better understand the feasibility and efficacy of providing pharmacotherapies for substance dependence disorders within this population.

Keywords:

• pharmacotherapy
• prisoners
• substance use

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Karen L. Cropsey

Karen Crospey is a Clinical Psychologist and Assistant Professor with the Department of Psychiatry and Institute of Drug and Alcohol Studies. Her research interests focus on the substance abuse and health problems of prisoner populations.

Gabriela C. Villalobos

Gabriela Villalobos graduated with a Bachelor's of Science in Psychology. She is a research assistant with the Department of Psychiatry.

Christina L. St. Clair

Christina St. Clair graduated with a Bachelor's of Science in Psychology. She is a research assistant with the Department of Psychiatry.