Studies from J.A.R. Carr and co-researchers update current data on addiction medicine.

In this recent study, researchers in London, Canada conducted a study "To determine the incidence of concurrent substance misuse among individuals entering first-episode psychosis treatment, and examine whether patients with concurrent substance misuse differ on variables relevant to service planning. Consecutive patients (n = 376) were assessed using standardized instruments."

"Twenty-two per cent met abuse or dependence criteria for a single substance, and 8% met criteria for two substances. Most met criteria for marijuana or marijuana and alcohol. The majority of patients with a concurrent disorder were male, and on average they were 3.5 years younger at psychosis onset. Patients with a concurrent disorder experienced worse 'positive' and anxiety symptoms in the month before treatment. Premorbidly they had better social functioning, but worse academic functioning. There are important differences between patients entering first-episode psychosis treatment with and without a concurrent substance misuse," wrote J.A.R. Carr and ...