TY  - JOUR
PY  - 2016//
TI  - Remission from substance use disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis
JO  - Drug and alcohol dependence
A1  - Fleury, M-j
A1  - Djouini, Akram
A1  - Huynh, Christophe
A1  - Tremblay, Joël
A1  - Ferland, Francine
A1  - Ménard, J-m
A1  - Belleville, Geneviève
SP  - 293
EP  - 306
VL  - 168
IS  - 
N2  - OBJECTIVE: This paper presents a systematic review and meta-analysis of available evidence on remission rates for substance use disorders (SUDs), providing weighted mean estimates of SUD remission rates. The review also explores study-level characteristics that may explain variations in remission rates across studies. <br><br>METHODS: A comprehensive search strategy identified studies published between 2000 and 2015 with follow-up periods of at least three years or reported lifetime remission outcomes for potential inclusion in the review. Remission was defined as not meeting diagnostic criteria for abuse or dependence for a minimum period of six months, as of final follow-up. A single-group summary meta-analysis was performed. Pooled estimated annual remission rates (PEARRs) were calculated. Meta-regression techniques and subgroup analyses were used to explore the association between study remission rates and key selected variables. <br><br>RESULTS: Of 8855 studies identified, 21 met the eligibility criteria. The results suggested that 35.0% to 54.4% of individuals with SUDs achieved remission, and this occurred after a mean follow-up period of 17 years. The PEARRs projected few cases of SUD remission, between 6.8% and 9.1% in any given year. Studies that reported higher remission rates had longer follow-up periods, and lower sample retention rates. <br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Results support the contention that SUDs are more likely to be "chronic" or long term disorders than acute disorders for a substantial number of individuals. However, more longitudinal research is required. Treatment geared to chronicity, such as assertive community treatment and intensive case management, needs to be more readily available for SUD populations.<br><br>Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.<p />  <p>Language: en</p>
LA  - en
SN  - 0376-8716
UR  - http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2016.08.625
ID  - ref1
ER  -