Abstract

TITLE - A study of substance use in patients with schizophrenia ? a cross sectional hospital based study.

Author(s): Sushma V Inamdar* and G. Gopalakrishnan

Background and objectives: Substance use is commonly seen in patients with psychosis. Comorbidity has profound implication in course, outcome and management of schizophrenia. This study examines patterns of substance use and its correlation with sociodemographic variables.

Method: 60 consecutive cases with diagnosis of schizophrenia with substance use fulfilling inclusion and exclusion criteria were recruited in the study. Semi structured proforma and SCAN 2.1version were applied to establish diagnosis of schizophrenia and substance use. 

Results: Mean age of onset of substance use is 29.57 years. Majority were young, married, males, belonging to lower socioeconomic status with rural background. 55% used alcohol followed by tobacco 41.7%, beetle nut 31.7%, benzodiazepines 10%, cannabis 5%. 

Conclusion: Alcohol consumption is more common in males as compared to females with tobacco use. 50% had harmful use. Early evaluation will help to treat this dual diagnosis holistically for better outcome.

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