The Diagnosis of Alcohol and Cannabis Dependence (Addiction) in Cocaine Dependence (Addiction)

In two separate studies in 263 inpatients using DSM-III-R criteria for alcohol and drug dependence (addiction) we confirm the clinical experience that cocaine addicts are dependent on other drugs including alcohol. Our study finds a high prevalence of alcohol dependence and cannabis dependence in patients with cocaine dependence. As many as 89% of cocaine addicts diagnosed by DSM-III-R criteria for cocaine dependence (addiction) qualify for other alcohol and drug dependence diagnoses. Previous reports regarding alcohol and other drug use among cocaine addicts are few and inconclusive. The diagnosis of other alcohol and drug dependence in cocaine dependence has important impact on etiology, prognosis, and treatment.