Question

what are some recommendation to treat drug and substance abuse among in-patients at the psychiatric ward

Answer 1

Drug and substance abuse is a maladaptive pattern of the substance use that will impair the health of the individual in a broad sense .

Detoxification is the first stel where if the patient has taken in High amount of substance that can impair the function of the body then we have to detoxification that substance with the antidote .

Treatment using anti-anxiety drugs and iv fluid are indicated in the individual

If the substance they have taken is can induce seizure then they can be given benzodiazepines . Intravenous phenytoin along with benzodiazepines for Specific patient with history of seizure

If the patient drug induced psychosis then it should be treated with antipsychotic mediation. Ths Specific patient who are aggressive can be treated with haloperidol .

If any deficiency in vitamins is seen them it has to be treated.for example in case of vitamins B1 deficiency in alcoholic patient .

Close observation is required for 5 days .

Acamprostate can be given as anticraving mediation and these drugs will reduce the craving by causing the inhibition of the GABA neurotransmitter .

Behavior therapy is the next usual therapy for them

As part of this drug treatment program for every individual , behavior therapy which is — a form of psychotherapy which can be conducted by the psychiatrist as well as the psychologist or they can receive counselling from a drug counselor. Therapy as well as counseling may be done in an individual or in a group of individuals . The therapist or the counselor can Specifically :

• Help the patient develop many strategies and ways to cope up with the drug cravings of the individual.
• Suggest Specific strategies to avoid the drugs as well as to prevent the relapse
• Offer many points and suggestions on how to Specifically deal with the relapse if it occurs in the person
• Talk about any issues that the patient is facing regarding their job or other , legal problems, as well as any problems in relationships with family and friends