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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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Follow-up evaluation of the addiction therapy part of the multimodal treatment program "Mama Denk an mich" ("Mummy, think of me"), an interdisciplinary cooperation of several departments of the University Hospital Dresden with the local youth welfare offices and addiction counseling centers., Method: Description of treatment course and sample of the first 100 patients with a methamphetamine-related disorder and prospective observational study of treatment outcome., Results: Besides a high proportion of first-time treated subjects (51%) and a young mean age (29 years), the sample was notable for precarious socioeconomic conditions and numerous comorbidities. Nevertheless, the comparatively high adherence rate (68%) suggests a good efficacy of the therapeutic methods used., Conclusion: Parenthood or pregnancy represent an opportunity to motivate methamphetamine addicts for effective outpatient addiction therapy even in the presence of severe addiction and psychiatric comorbidities., Competing Interests: Die Autorinnen/Autoren geben an, dass kein Interessenkonflikt besteht., (Thieme. All rights reserved.)