Drug Addiction and Related Clinical Problems

The book gives an update on different aspects of drug addiction and AIDS. The first chapters deal with the biological aspects of drug addiction, from cloning of brain opioid receptors to the mechanisms of dependence development. The second part confirms the validity of methadone maintenance treatments in controlling heroin addiction, and shows the spreading of methadone use in different European countries. Methadone maintenance also appears as the most valid strategy in HIV epidemics prevention. The most recent acquisition on AIDS diagnostic criteria and treatment protocols are discussed. The debate on these topics remains unresolved but the authoritative opinions and the significant data reported will help in attenuating emotionality, and will favor a progressively more pragmatic approach.