The effect of mianserin add-on, on the intensity of opioid withdrawal symptoms during detoxification program-a randomized, double blind, placebo ... study [An article from: Addictive Behaviors]

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Description:
Background: Based on pre-clinical studies regarding the interaction of various antidepressant drugs with the opioid system, we designed a clinical study to be carried out in the 'in-patient detoxification unit' within a large community centre for treatment of drugs dependent people. We evaluated the effect of mianserin add-on, on the intensity of opioid withdrawal symptoms in opiate dependent subjects undergoing medication-supported physical detoxification and integrated psychosocial and psychotherapeutic intervention for the treatment of dependence. Methods: Mianserin (or placebo) was added to the routine medication protocol, during the 3-week in-patient phase of detoxification in a prospective, randomized, double blind, placebo controlled study. Mianserin (or placebo) was continued after discharge and patients were followed up for 3 months in order to evaluate relapse rates. Opiate withdrawal symptoms were assessed during the first 10 days, while depression and anxiety were assessed throughout the 3 months of study. Results: From day 2 onward, patients in the study group showed significantly lower withdrawal symptoms than the control group patients and reached this peak faster (study group 2.8 days, control group 3.2 days, p