Background: Methamphetamine abuse is expanding in Europe, leading to a shortfall in medical care for related disorders in many regions. Research focusing on the effectiveness and feasibility of methamphetamine-specific treatment programs is scarce, especially in short-term settings. Methods: To this end, we treated 31 patients with methamphetamine dependence using a new group psychotherapy manual added to standard psychiatric care. Trained research assistants recorded demographic, illness and treatment variables using a standardized interview at baseline and a follow-up visit 3 months later. Outcome and process variables for this intervention encompassing 15 modules for qualified detoxification and motivation of patients with methamphetamine dependence are reported. Results: Retention and abstinence rates as well as acceptance and feasibility in daily routine were assessed positively. Patients with an unsuccessful outcome were characterized by longer regular methamphetamine use (t = −2.513, df = 29, p = 0.018) and a shorter abstinence period at baseline (U = 74.500, z = −1.808, p = 0.072). Among the demographic and clinical variables, the only predictor significantly increasing the odds of a successful outcome was a shorter period of regular methamphetamine use (OR = 1.318, CI 95% for OR = 1.021-1.700, b = 0.276, SE = 0.130, p = 0.034). Conclusions: This freely available therapy manual can help counter the shortfall in available psychotherapeutic interventions for patients with methamphetamine dependence in German-speaking countries. The routinely assessed parameters duration of regular methamphetamine use and abstinence before treatment were associated with outcome and may be used to personalize therapeutic strategies.

Zusammenfassung Einleitung Methamphetaminkonsum hat sich im Südosten Deutschlands zu einer flächendeckenden Problematik ausgeweitet. Gleichzeitig fehlen deutschsprachige, standardisierte Therapiemanuale in der Versorgungslandschaft. Methodik Evaluation von Prozessvariablen eines neuen Manuals für die qualifizierte Entgiftungs- und Motivationsbehandlung der Methamphetaminabhängigkeit. Hierzu wurden 31 Patienten1 (Durchschnittsalter 29 Jahre, 11 weiblich) über 3 Monate regelmäßig untersucht. Ergebnisse Akzeptanz sowie Durchführbarkeit im stationären Alltag wurden positiv bewertet. Häufung von Abbrüchen bei Übergang in ambulantes Setting. Schlussfolgerung Das Manual wirkt der Versorgungslücke entgegen. Durchführbarkeit im klinischen Setting ließe sich durch Straffung der Module und höhere Therapiefrequenz verbessern.

How to cite this article: Kaur A, Nixon R. Allergic contact dermatitis to mercaptobenzothiazole in N95 mask rubber straps in healthcare workers.