Biomedical subjects

Ramon Solhkhah

Publications and source records attributed to Ramon Solhkhah.

3 recordsLinked to original sources

PubMed2006

Preference for spirituality and twelve-step-oriented approaches among adolescents in a residential therapeutic community.

This study sought to determine which adolescents being treated for substance use in a residential Therapeutic Community (TC) would endorse spirituality and Twelve Step oriented approaches as part of their treatment. By identifying individual difference characteristics associated with preference for spirituality and Twelve Step oriented approaches, integrated substance abuse treatments can be targeted to appropriate subgroups of adolescents. A total of 181 adolescents completed a survey assessing their substance use and attitudes toward spirituality and Twelve Step oriented approaches that was similar to a survey completed by 322 adults in the same residential TC program. In the adolescent sample, three spirituality related characteristics: perceived connectedness to others, frequency of prayer, and spiritual orientation to life were associated with preference for both spirituality and twelve step oriented approaches being featured more in TC treatment. Adolescents were less likely than adults to express a preference that both approaches be featured more in TC treatment.

Adolescent↗

PubMed2005

Bupropion SR for the treatment of substance-abusing outpatient adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and mood disorders.

OBJECTIVE: Few studies exist on pharmacological interventions for adolescents with substance use disorders (SUD). To this end, we evaluated the response of bupropion hydrochloride sustained release (SR) in SUD adolescents with comorbid psychopathology (both attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and a mood disorder). METHODS: Fourteen adolescent outpatients were treated naturalistically and followed openly for 6 months. Adolescents were rated using the Drug Use Screening Inventory--Revised (DUSI-R), ADHD Symptom Checklist, and the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM-D). Clinical Global Impression (CGI) Scale scores were obtained for Substance Abuse, ADHD, Anxiety, and Depression. The ratings were completed at baseline, at month 3, and at the 6-month endpoint. Bupropion SR was initiated at 100 mg once-daily and titrated naturalistically to a maximum dose of 400 mg/day. RESULTS: Of the 14 subjects followed, 13 subjects completed 6 months of treatment. At the 6- month endpoint compared to baseline, treatment with bupropion was associated with clinical and significant reductions in DUSI scores (-39%; p < 0.05), ADHD symptom checklist (-43%; p < 0.001), HAM-D (-76%; p < or = 0.001); and reductions in the CGIs for ADHD (p < or = 0.001), depression (p < or = 0.001), and substance abuse (p < 0.05). The mean daily dose of bupropion SR was 315 mg (in divided doses). No significant adverse events were noted during the follow-up period. CONCLUSIONS: These naturalistic data suggest that bupropion is well tolerated and may be an effective medication for the treatment of substance abusing adolescents with comorbid mood disorders and ADHD.

Adolescent↗

PubMed2003

The intoxicated child.

Psychiatric disorders and substance abuse occur frequently together, which leads to difficulty in assessment and treatment. An awareness of the prevalence and manifestations of psychiatric diagnoses is essential for the quality treatment of adolescents who abuse substances. The clinician should keep up-to-date on psychopharmacologic interventions [65, 83]. Frequently, the use of psychiatric medications, such as antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and psychostimulants, is beneficial. Care must be taken, however, to avoid potential interactions between the illicit drugs and the prescribed medications [151]. Use of groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, or "Double-Trouble" groups, which deal with mentally ill and chemical abusing or dual diagnosis issues, often can be a useful adjunct to treatment with a mental health professional [152-154]. Careful observation, history taking, and appropriate consultation result in better detection and treatment of comorbid medical and psychiatric disorders and the initial substance abuse problem.

Adolescent↗