Treatment Entry and Predictors Among Opiate-Using Injection Drug Users

Abstract

This study examines entry into drug treatment among 491 street-recruited injection drug users in Denver, Colorado. The primary outcome was treatment entry within 6 months. Univariate tests were run using chi-square t-test analyses. Significant variables were included in a multiple logistic regression. Results showed that having more outreach contacts, not being homeless, having fewer problems with alcohol but more problems with drugs, and the contemplation or determination stage of change were associated with entering treatment. The identification of predictors of treatment entry may be useful for treatment centers in engaging certain populations of drug users. Behavioral interventions are an important tool in recruiting drug injectors into treatment.

Keywords:

• IDUs
• methadone maintenance
• treatment entry