CrystalClean - A German-Language Manual for Qualified Detoxification and Motivation Treatment in Cases of Crystal Meth Dependency - Feasibility and Acceptance

Introduction Over the last decade, methamphetamine use has spread rapidly in Europe, leading to a significant medical shortfall in many regions. To date, there are no standardized German-language therapy programs for qualified detoxification and motivation treatment. We have developed a therapy manual (CrystalClean) over 15 therapy modules, which was evaluated in the present pilot study with regard to feasibility and acceptability. Methods Observational study with systematic interviews over 3 months on 31 patients with methamphetamine dependence. Results Acceptability of most modules was rated as high by both patients and therapists. In addition, the manual was considered to be well feasible in inpatient daily routine. However, contact terminations frequently occurred when switching to outpatient treatment. Conclusion Results from our study point to a high acceptance of the manual for the accompaniment of qualified detoxification and motivation treatment in patients with methamphetamine dependence. Feasibility in the clinical setting can be improved by reducing the number of modules to the 12 best evaluated and by increasing the frequency of therapies.